As the New York Islanders navigate through various trade scenarios involving their free-agent defenseman, Noah Dobson, league sources have confirmed that the team is now considering two primary suitors: the Montreal Canadiens and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Dobson is looking for a franchise on the rise, and both of these teams are perceived as promising destinations for his career.
The 25-year-old right-shot defenseman is anticipated to sign a lucrative contract extension as part of any trade deal from the Islanders. Sources indicate that Dobson's next contract will carry a cap hit of at least $9.5 million, underscoring his value in the current market. The Islanders had previously explored a potential extension with Dobson before assessing the trade market, demonstrating their intent to retain him if possible.
Dobson has attracted significant interest from various teams; however, only a limited number of clubs can meet the high acquisition cost that the Islanders are demanding. Additionally, these teams must also be in a position to offer a long-term contract to finalize the transaction. Dobson’s previous contract had a cap hit of $4 million, and he has consistently performed at a high level, ranking among the top-10 NHL defensemen in scoring over the past four seasons.
Since being drafted by the Islanders with the 12th pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, Dobson has spent his entire career on Long Island. He achieved a career-best performance two seasons ago, tallying an impressive 70 points. Last season, he contributed 10 goals and 39 points over the course of 71 games, showcasing his offensive capabilities and solidifying his reputation as a key player.
The Montreal Canadiens are coming off a season where they qualified for the playoffs but were eliminated in the first round by the Washington Capitals. Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets experienced a substantial improvement, finishing with 89 points, just two points shy of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Both teams represent viable options for Dobson as he seeks to join a competitive franchise.
Additionally, the St. Louis Blues were previously reported as being involved in trade discussions for Dobson, adding another layer to the dynamics of his potential move. As negotiations continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where this talented defenseman will land as the Islanders aim to optimize their roster for future success.
