Vancouver Canucks Hit With Setback As Derek Forbort's Injury is More Serious Than Anticipated
Tough news for Vancouver Canucks fans came this Wednesday as it was revealed that defenseman Derek Forbort is facing a week-to-week recovery from a lower-body injury. The specifics of his condition remain undisclosed, but signs point to an unfortunate practice mishap earlier in the week. According to The Athletic's Harman Dayal, the 32-year-old defenseman was forced to cut his skate short after appearing to injure his leg during a drill.
Forbort's recent return to the lineup had been a welcome sight. After an early-season leave of absence for personal reasons, he marked his return with an appearance in Vancouver's 3-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks last Saturday. Notably, that game represented a milestone-the 500th of his NHL career. In 15:18 of ice time, Forbort posted a -1 rating, contributing steady minutes to help seal the Canucks' win.
So far this season, Forbort has suited up in just four of Vancouver's 11 games. Through those appearances, he's averaged 16:30 in ice time and carries a -2 rating. While these numbers might not jump off the stat sheet, his veteran presence has provided valuable depth to a defensive lineup headlined by captain Quinn Hughes.
Forbort's journey to Vancouver has been one marked by adaptability and resilience. After being selected 15th overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2010 NHL Draft, he spent five seasons with them before being traded to the Calgary Flames in 2020. A year with the Winnipeg Jets followed, before he settled into a three-season stint with the Boston Bruins. His offseason move to Vancouver on a one-year, $1.5 million deal was aimed at bolstering the Canucks' defensive unit with experience and toughness.
Across 10-plus NHL seasons, the Duluth, Minnesota native has amassed 96 points from 17 goals and 79 assists, including contributions in 35 playoff games. Now, Canucks fans and teammates alike will await his return, hoping for a speedy recovery and the steady play he's known for.
