NHL Central Scouting's Jack Barzee
“Derek Forbort has good top-end ability at both ends (of the ice). He's smart and skates so well, he's almost 6-5 and he's got everything there in front of him. It's just a matter of filling out and getting more experience. He's probably a top-two defenseman in the NHL if he reaches his potential."

U.S. Under-18 head coach Kurt Kleinendorst
“Derek continues to improve every day. He is strong on both sides of the puck, but his offensive instincts are what really jump out.”