Former Blackhawks Assistant Coach Kevin Dean Expected to Join Vancouver Canucks Staff
The Vancouver Canucks are making moves to finalize their coaching team, and according to Thomas Drance of The Athletic, former Chicago Blackhawks assistant coach Kevin Dean is set to join new head coach Adam Foote behind the bench.
Dean’s departure from the Blackhawks was reported in mid-May, and shortly thereafter, Rick Dhaliwal of CHEK mentioned on the “Donnie & Dhali” show that Dean could be a suitable addition to the Canucks’ coaching staff.
Dean recently contributed to Team USA’s coaching success at the 2025 IIHF World Championships, helping the team—featuring Canucks players Conor Garland and Drew O’Connor—secure its first gold medal since 1933. His coaching experience includes three seasons with Chicago and five seasons with the Boston Bruins, as well as a decade in the AHL with the Lowell Devils and the Providence Bruins. Before his coaching career, Dean played in the NHL for nearly ten years, suiting up for the New Jersey Devils (1994–99), Atlanta Thrashers, Dallas Stars, and the Blackhawks during the 1999–2000 season.
With Dean anticipated to handle defensive responsibilities in Vancouver, the team now turns its attention to finding an offensive coach. Strengthening the offensive side is crucial after a somewhat underwhelming performance last season, especially with two defensively focused coaches already in place.
Derek Forbort Signs One-Year Extension with Vancouver Canucks
Derek Forbort will remain with the Vancouver Canucks after signing a one-year contract worth $2 million.
The veteran defenseman, who played at the University of North Dakota (UND) from 2010 to 2013, completed his first season with the Canucks by recording two goals and 11 points in 54 games, while averaging just over 17 minutes of ice time per game. Known for his defensive capabilities, Forbort was a key asset on the penalty kill.
“Re-signing Derek is a significant step for our team,” said Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin. “His dependable defensive play and leadership made a big impact last season. We’re counting on him to continue supporting our progress this year.”
Forbort, a Duluth, Minnesota native, was originally drafted 15th overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2010 NHL Draft. Over his 10-season NHL career, he has appeared in 550 regular-season games with the Kings, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, Boston Bruins, and Vancouver Canucks.
He was scheduled to enter free agency on July 1 before finalizing the new deal.
