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Three former UND players enter NHL free agency on July 1

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 2:35 PM

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

Hockey

Summary

Cole Smith, Derek Forbort, and Tyson Jost, all former University of North Dakota (UND) players, are set to enter NHL free agency on July 1. Smith recently reached the Stanley Cup Final with the Vegas Golden Knights, where he performed well in the playoffs. Forbort had a challenging season with the Vancouver Canucks, missing most of it due to hip surgery. Jost, who played last season with the Nashville Predators, completed his tenth NHL season after previous stints with several teams. Each player will look to secure new contracts as free agency opens.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cole Smith played for the Vegas Golden Knights last season.
•Derek Forbort underwent hip surgery and played only two games.
•Tyson Jost completed his tenth NHL season with the Predators.
•Free agency officially opens on July 1, 2026.
•All three players are former UND athletes.

Latest Updates

2:35 PMYahoo Sports — Former UND players set to hit NHL free agency

What they're saying

"
Jun. 30—GRAND FORKS — Cole Smith's incredible rise in the hockey world took another step this season. The former Brainerd (Minn.) High and UND player, who had one collegiate scholarship offer, reached the Stanley Cup Final with the Vegas Golden Knights. He came within two games of winning hockey's ultimate prize. Now, Smith will look for his next stop. He is one of three UND players who are ...
— Yahoo Sports

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