The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed defenseman Derek Forbort to a one-year contract worth $2 million. The 33-year-old had a solid performance last season with 11 points, comprising two goals and nine assists across 54 games. Standing at 6'4" and weighing 216 pounds, Forbort brings experience from his previous stints with teams like Los Angeles and Boston, accumulating a total of 550 career regular-season games. In the playoffs, his contributions include three goals and two assists in 35 matchups.

Canucks GM Patrik Allvin highlighted Forbort's defensive strengths, particularly his effectiveness on the penalty kill, emphasizing that retaining him is a crucial move for the team's defensive lineup next season.

The Colorado Avalanche face important decisions regarding their defensive depth chart as they prepare for the offseason. With the top four defencemen secured under contract, the main focus shifts to filling positions 5 through 8 on the blue line. Recent years have seen a carousel of players in the No. 5 slot, including Ryan Lindgren, Bo Byram, and Sean Walker. Lindgren’s uncertain future as an unrestricted free agent raises concerns about the budget, especially with the potential acquisition of a No. 2 center. The Avalanche might lean towards Sam Malinski as the new No. 5, but they will need to identify a partner for him.

The options include familiar names and new figures. Erik Johnson, if he opts to continue playing, could serve in a more limited capacity, while Keaton Middleton’s role remains uncertain after inconsistent performances last season. They might also explore external options, which could involve looking for bargains or mid-range signings. Players like Brian Dumoulin and Derek Forbort stand out as potential mid-range acquisitions, albeit with some risk given their recent performances. The Avalanche will have to navigate a delicate balance of maintaining competitiveness while adhering to financial constraints as they finalize their lineup for the coming season.

The Vancouver Canucks faced a challenging loss against the Dallas Stars, falling 4-1 as their scoring troubles continued to mount. Head Coach Rick Tocchet expressed urgency for a more desperate approach as the team fights for a playoff spot, noting that they've been outscored since returning from the break. The Canucks managed only 23 shots on goal, with defenseman Derek Forbort scoring the lone goal, marking his first as a Canuck after previously playing for the Boston Bruins.

Despite solid defensive efforts limiting the Stars to 19 shots, the Canucks struggled to convert opportunities into goals. Tocchet's approach to ice time reflects his commitment to performance, as he emphasized that players must earn their minutes. Goalie Casey DeSmith, who previously played for Vancouver, felt satisfaction in defeating his former team, contributing to a solid record since joining the Stars.

Mikael Granlund found the back of the net for the first time as a member of the Dallas Stars, leading the team to a 4-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks. The Stars, who recently acquired Granlund and Cody Ceci from San Jose, saw contributions from Thomas Harley, Jason Robertson, and Mikko Rantanen. Stars' defenseman Matt Duchene added two assists. In goal, Casey DeSmith returned to face his former club, making 22 saves against 23 shots.

The Canucks struggled, with Derek Forbort scoring their only goal, while goaltender Kevin Lankinen had to manage without captain Quinn Hughes due to injury. Dallas maintained a strong position in the playoff race, even while missing key player Roope Hintz, who suffered a facial injury.

The Vancouver Canucks faced a frustrating defeat against the Dallas Stars, losing 4-1 on Sunday. The team has struggled to score since returning from the Four Nations Face-Off break, with a record of 3-5-0 and being outscored 25-17 in that span. Coach Rick Tocchet emphasized the need for more desperation in their efforts as they chase a playoff spot. The Canucks only managed 23 shots on goal while soundly limiting the Stars to just 19 shots, showcasing their defensive capabilities. Unfortunately, the lack of offense remains a significant hurdle.

Despite the lone goal from Derek Forbort, who celebrated his first goal as a Canuck, frustration looms over the team's top scorers such as Jake DeBrusk and Brock Boeser, who faced limited ice time due to performance concerns as pointed out by Tocchet. Goalie Casey DeSmith, previously with Vancouver, noted the added satisfaction in defeating his former team.