There will be at least one change on the Vancouver Canucks blue line for the upcoming season, as Derek Forbort is reportedly set to hit the open market.
According to Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal, the team has expressed interest in bringing the depth defender back, but at this point it looks unlikely.
Canucks have shown interest in trying to get Forbort back, but I'm hearing as of now he most likely will hit the market - Rick Dhaliwal on Sportsnet 650's Halford and Brough.
He notched 11 points in 54 games averaging 17:06 in ice time, and the 33 year old is known for being a solid penalty killer, helping the Canucks maintain a top three penalty kill league wide.
With the cap increasing, the veteran D might receive more lucrative offers elsewhere and though he was a useful piece for the Canucks, his departure could open up opportunity for youngsters like Elias Pettersson and Victor Mancini to play more consistent roles with the team.
With Quinn Hughes and Marcus Pettersson occupying the top two left side roles on the Canucks' blue line, Forbort's departure would provide a huge window for Elias Pettersson specifically to grab a full time role.
After a tumultuous season, the Canucks are expected to be among the busier teams in the league this offseason.