The Montreal Canadiens' acquisition of Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders has generated considerable excitement and high expectations for the 2025-26 NHL season. The Canadiens, who finished the 2024-25 season with a 40-31-11 record and a playoff berth, are looking to build on their success and become a true contender in the league. Dobson, a 25-year-old defenseman, is expected to play a key role in achieving that goal.
Dobson's journey to Montreal involved a significant trade, with the Canadiens sending forward Emil Heineman and two first-round picks (16th and 17th overall) in the 2025 NHL Draft to the Islanders. The Canadiens then signed Dobson to an eight-year, $76 million contract extension, highlighting their belief in his long-term value to the team.
Dobson brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Canadiens' blue line. As of June 2025, he has played 388 career NHL games, recording 50 goals and 180 assists for a total of 230 points. His offensive capabilities are particularly noteworthy; he had a career-high 70 points (10 goals, 60 assists) in the 2023-24 season, placing him among the league leaders in defensemen scoring. That season, he joined Denis Potvin as the only Islanders defensemen to record at least 60 assists in a season. While his production dipped slightly in the 2024-25 season to 39 points (10 goals, 29 assists), he is still considered an offensive threat from the back end.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 200 pounds, Dobson possesses the size and strength to compete against top NHL forwards. He is a right-handed shot, which adds to his versatility and makes him a valuable asset on the power play. His average ice time of 23:16 per game in 2024-25 demonstrates his importance to his team.
Some observers attributed Dobson's dip in production during the 2024-25 season to the Islanders' offensive struggles as a team. With a stronger offensive supporting cast in Montreal, it is believed that Dobson can return to his peak performance and potentially exceed it.
Dobson's arrival in Montreal has raised questions about the Canadiens' contract negotiations with other key players, particularly Lane Hutson. With Dobson's significant contract on the books, some analysts suggest that the Canadiens may have less leverage in future negotiations.
Overall, the acquisition of Noah Dobson is a significant move for the Montreal Canadiens. He is expected to provide a boost to the team's offense, solidify the defense, and contribute to the Canadiens' quest for a Stanley Cup. As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Dobson to see how he performs in his new environment and whether he can live up to the high expectations.
