DONE DEAL: The Montreal Canadiens Has Land Defensive Man Noah Dobson In A Blockbuster Trade With…
Official: Canadiens Acquire Defenseman Noah Dobson from Islanders in Blockbuster Trade
Montreal, QC – The Montreal Canadiens have made a significant addition to their blue line, acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders in a high-profile trade finalized earlier today.
The deal, confirmed by both clubs, sends Dobson to Montreal in exchange for a package that reportedly includes a 2025 first-round pick, defensive prospect Lane Hutson, and forward Josh Anderson.
This marks one of the most impactful moves of the 2025 NHL offseason, with both organizations signaling a shift in strategy heading into next season.
Dobson Brings Top-Pairing Talent to Montreal
Dobson, 24, is coming off a career-best season in which he recorded 70 points (12G, 58A) in 82 games while averaging over 24 minutes per night. A former first-round pick (12th overall in 2018), Dobson has developed into a premier right-shot defenseman with the ability to contribute in all situations.
For Montreal, this move provides a major upgrade to a defensive core that has relied heavily on youth and inexperience in recent seasons. Dobson is expected to immediately slot into the Canadiens’ top pair alongside Kaiden Guhle or Mike Matheson.
“We’re extremely pleased to add a player of Noah’s caliber,” said Canadiens GM Kent Hughes. “He brings mobility, vision, and leadership — and fits the timeline of our group moving forward.”
Islanders Prioritize Future Assets
From the Islanders’ perspective, the decision to part ways with Dobson — a key component of their blue line — underscores a shift toward long-term planning. The return includes one of Montreal’s top prospects in Lane Hutson, a high-upside offensive defenseman, as well as a first-round pick in a deep 2025 draft.
The addition of Anderson gives the Islanders a physical, experienced forward who may help address scoring depth in the short term.
“This was a difficult decision,” said Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello. “But one we believe positions us well for the future. Lane is a talented young player, and the draft capital gives us flexibility moving forward.”
What This Means Going Forward
This trade reshapes the trajectory of both teams:
Montreal accelerates its transition from rebuild to contender, adding a top-pair defenseman still in his prime.
New York gains a valuable prospect and future assets that may better align with the organization’s evolving competitive window.