### Vancouver Canucks Secure Veteran Defenseman Derek Forbort for 2025 Season The Vancouver Canucks have made a strategic move by re-signing defenseman Derek Forbort to a one-year contract worth $2 million for the 2025-26 NHL season. Forbort, a former University of North Dakota player, has accumulated significant experience in the NHL, having played 550 regular-season games. His return is seen as a vital step in strengthening the Canucks' defensive lineup, especially as the team looks to improve its performance in the upcoming season. General Manager Patrik Allvin emphasized Forbort's strong defensive skills and leadership qualities as key factors in the decision to retain him [https://www.inforum.com/sports/und-hockey/derek-forbort-signs-one-year-2-million-deal-with-vancouver-canucks, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nhl/news/vancouver-canucks-re-sign-derek-forbort-to-strengthen-blue-line-for-2025/articleshow/121608712.cms]. ### Breakdown of the Re-signing Decision 1. **Contract Details**: - Forbort signed a one-year deal worth $2 million, a modest increase from his previous contract of $1.5 million [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/canucks_sign_derek_forbort_to_one-year_extension/s1_16958_42281212]. 2. **Player Performance**: - In the 2024-25 season, Forbort played 54 games, scoring 2 goals and providing 9 assists, while maintaining a minus-7 rating [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/canucks_sign_defenceman_derek_forbort_to_one-year_2_million_extension/s1_15359_42281015]. 3. **Leadership and Experience**: - At 33 years old, Forbort brings a decade of NHL experience, which is crucial for a relatively young Canucks team. His leadership is expected to help guide younger players [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/vancouver_canucks_re_sign_reliable_defender/s1_17203_42280924]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract History**: - Previous Contract: $1.5 million for the 2024-25 season. - New Contract: $2 million for the 2025-26 season. - **Performance Metrics**: - Games Played: 54 - Goals: 2 - Assists: 9 - Plus/Minus Rating: -7 [https://www.nhl.com/canucks/news/canucks-agree-to-terms-with-defenceman-derek-forbort-on-a-one-year-contract-2025]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Canucks In summary, the Vancouver Canucks' decision to re-sign Derek Forbort is a calculated move aimed at enhancing their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season. 1. **Contractual Commitment**: The one-year, $2 million deal reflects the team's confidence in Forbort's abilities and leadership. 2. **Performance and Experience**: Forbort's experience and past performance metrics indicate he can contribute positively to the team's defensive strategy. 3. **Future Outlook**: His presence is expected to provide stability and mentorship to younger players, which is essential for the team's growth and success in the 2025-26 season [https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/canucks-hockey/canucks-re-sign-veteran-defenceman-derek-forbort-contract-cap-hit-10755483].