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.