Forum Talk: Will The Canadiens Be True Contenders In The Atlantic Next Season Following The Dobson Sign And Trade?

The Montreal Canadiens acquired Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders on Friday in a sign-and-trade that sent the Islanders two 2025 first-round picks and Emil Heineman in return for the star defenseman. As part of the deal, the Canadiens got the 25-year-old Dobson signed on an eight-year deal, giving them an elite D-man for seasons to come.

Dobson joins a Montreal squad that is fresh off a first-round playoff appearance in 2025, one in which they looked relatively competitive against the Metropolitan Division-leading Washington Capitals. In addition, the team already has a solid core, lead by captain Nick Suzuki, and with rising star Cole Caufield and rookie of the year, Lane Hutson.

With a top defenseman like Dobson being added to this Montreal team that was already on the rise, are they now poised to be a true contender in the Atlantic Division in the 2025-26 season?

Let us know what you think. And remember, The Hockey News Community is a hockey forum where you can not only join the conversation but start your own.