The Montreal Canadiens have sent shockwaves through the NHL with their latest blockbuster move, landing a young defenseman whose reputation precedes him—but there’s far more beneath the surface than meets the eye.

As fans scramble to dissect every detail of Kent Hughes’ daring acquisition, whispers from inside the league hint at a player whose impact could go far beyond the blue line.

Noah Dobson isn’t just a talented defenseman; he’s a competitor with a burning desire to wear the Canadiens jersey, and those who know him best say he’s uniquely prepared for the white-hot spotlight of Montreal hockey.

But what truly sets Dobson apart? One former teammate—now skating for a rival NHL club—has come forward with candid insights that could change everything fans think they know about the team’s newest addition.

From tales of Dobson’s remarkable maturity at just seventeen to stories of his quiet charisma and leadership behind the scenes, the revelations are both surprising and inspiring.

Could Dobson be the missing piece that elevates the Canadiens to new heights?

What do those closest to him say about his ability to handle pressure and win over the city’s passionate fanbase?

The answers may surprise you—read on to discover the full story.

Apr 17, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson (8) looks to shoot against the New York Islanders during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

The acquisition of Noah Dobson by Kent Hughes on the eve of the last NHL Draft was quite a move by the GM.

Not only did the Montreal Canadiens land an excellent young, experienced defenseman, but they also acquired a player who has a strong desire to play for the organization and is well aware of the pressure that comes with it.

Speaking of pressure, one of his former teammates with the Acadie-Bathurst Titan in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League, Jeffrey Viel, thinks he will handle it very well.

“The pressure in Montreal, it’s going to be fine for him. When I played with him, he was only 17 years old and he already had the maturity. That’s the kind of guy he is.”

– Jeffrey Viel

Noah Dobson’s personality will appeal to Canadiens fans

It was in an episode of the Sans restriction podcast, hosted by Kevin Raphael, that Viel spoke publicly about his former teammate.

He even added that Dobson could become a fan favorite not only because of his play on the ice, but also because of his personality.

“He’s a quiet guy, but he has an incredible personality. The people of Montreal are going to love him.. It’s a great trade.”

– Jeffrey Viel

Viel, who is currently in the Boston Bruins organization, seems very happy for his friend.

In 2017-2018, with Viel as his teammate, Dobson recorded 17 goals and 52 assists for 69 points in 67 regular season games, adding 13 points in 20 playoff appearances.

During that campaign, the two players lifted the President’s Cup, which is awarded to the winners of the QMJHL playoffs.

See the podcast below: