As the Montreal Canadiens navigate a pivotal offseason, the rumor mill is running at full speed with talk of bold moves and potential franchise-altering trades. Amidst the swirl of speculation, one name has emerged as a particularly serious target: Noah Dobson.

With the New York Islanders holding the coveted first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and their focus shifting to offensive needs, Dobson’s future on Long Island appears increasingly uncertain. This has opened the door for Kent Hughes and the Canadiens’ front office to make a significant play for the talented 25-year-old defenseman.

Known for his impressive offensive production and steady presence on the blue line, Dobson could be the missing piece to elevate Montreal’s defensive core for years to come. As experts and insiders continue to link Dobson to the Habs, anticipation is building among fans eager to see if this potential blockbuster deal will come to fruition.

Dec 3, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; New York Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson (8) plays the puck against Montreal Canadiens center Nick Suzuki (14) during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

At this point in the Montreal Canadiens’ offseason, there are numerous rumors and speculations involving Kent Hughes and possible acquisitions.

Several experts are speculating about which names Hughes and Jeff Gorton should target over the coming weeks, and many potential acquisitions are being floated as possibilities.

However, one of them seems to be a little more serious than the others.

Noah Dobson Is a Real Target for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

Knowing that the New York Islanders hold the 1st overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, knowing that they are likely to draft the incredible defenseman Matthew Schaefer, and knowing that they mainly have needs on offense right now (not defense), the name Noah Dobson is now seriously circulating on the trade market.

He is among the names that have been linked to the Montreal Canadiens as a possible summer acquisition, but in his case, it appears to be serious, he is considered a real target for the Habs.

As Shaun Starr and Marco D’Amico mention right here..

“Noah Dobson, a real target for the Canadiens.”

Dobson is a real target for the Canadiens, so this will definitely be a situation to keep a close eye on.

At 25 years old, Noah Dobson was the 12th overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft. He is a right-handed defenseman who collected 39 points in 71 games this season, after recording 70 points in 79 games in 2023-2024.

He will be a restricted free agent this summer.

He could definitely become a pillar of the Montreal Canadiens’ defensive core for many years to come, alongside Kaiden Guhle, David Reinbacher, and, of course, Lane Hutson.