Derek Dorsett, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent much of his career in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a right winger known for his gritty playing style and willingness to stand up for his teammates. Born on December 20, 1986, in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, Dorsett grew up playing hockey in the small town of Kindersley before moving on to play junior hockey with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Western Hockey League (WHL).
Dorsett was drafted 189th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Blue Jackets during the 2008-2009 season. Known for his physical play and ability to agitate opponents, Dorsett quickly became a fan favorite in Columbus. Over the next few seasons, he established himself as a reliable fourth-line player, contributing both offensively and defensively while also leading the team in penalty minutes.
In April 2013, Dorsett was traded to the New York Rangers as part of a multi-player deal. His time with the Rangers was marked by his role as an enforcer, where he continued to play a tough, physical game. Dorsett's presence on the ice was felt during the Rangers' run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2014, where they ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Kings.
The Vancouver Canucks acquired Dorsett in June 2014 in exchange for a third-round draft pick. In Vancouver, he continued to play his hard-nosed style of hockey, endearing himself to the Canucks' fan base. Dorsett's ability to play a physical game while also contributing offensively made him a valuable asset to the team. During the 2014-2015 season, he set a career-high in points, demonstrating his ability to contribute beyond his role as an enforcer.
Unfortunately, Dorsett's career was marred by injuries, including a significant neck injury that required surgery in 2016. Despite the challenges, he made a comeback for the 2017-2018 season, playing 20 games and scoring seven goals. However, the lingering effects of his neck injury led to his early retirement in November 2017, as doctors advised him against continuing to play due to the risk of further injury.
Dorsett's career, though cut short, was characterized by his tenacity and willingness to play a tough, physical game.
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