The Montreal Canadiens made waves earlier today by landing defenseman Noah Dobson in a blockbuster deal that sent shockwaves through the hockey world. The trade, orchestrated by Kent Hughes, saw the Canadiens part with two first-round picks and promising young forward Emil Heineman to secure the services of the highly-coveted Dobson.

But as more details emerge, it’s clear the story behind this trade is even more fascinating than first believed. According to new reports, the Islanders had the option to select between two of Montreal’s talented young forwards—Emil Heineman and Owen Beck—ultimately choosing Heineman as the centerpiece of their return.

This behind-the-scenes twist not only highlights the high regard in which Heineman is held around the league, but also speaks volumes about the Canadiens’ confidence in Owen Beck’s future. As fans and analysts digest the fallout from this franchise-altering move, attention now turns to how these young players will shape their new teams—and what this decision means for the Canadiens’ long-term vision.

Photo of Noah Dobson

Photo credit: RDS

As you probably already know, Noah Dobson was traded to the Montreal Canadiens earlier today.

He was acquired by Kent Hughes in exchange for the 16th and 17th overall picks in the 2025 draft, as well as forward Emil Heineman.

That said, we’ve now learned that another young Canadiens forward could have been included in the trade.

The Islanders chose Emil Heineman over Owen Beck in this trade

Interesting development.

This comes from Charles-Alexis Brisebois of DansLesCoulisses.

“But did you know that before talking about Emil Heineman, Mathieu Darche and Kent Hughes discussed another young player as part of today’s major trade?

According to our information, the Canadiens initially offered Owen Beck to the Islanders. They instead asked for Emil Heineman-and clearly, the Canadiens said yes.”

This says a lot about Owen Beck’s current value and once again proves that young Heineman is an intriguing asset to include in a major trade.

“In Emil Heineman’s young career, he has now been traded for Sam Bennett, Tyler Toffoli and Noah Dobson. The Islanders just acquired a world class trade chip.”

– Arpon Basu

At 23 years old, Emil Heineman recorded 18 points in 62 games this season with the Montreal Canadiens, including 10 goals, and is a restricted free agent.

At 21 years old, Owen Beck has registered 1 point in 13 NHL games with the Canadiens, along with 44 points in 64 games this season with the Laval Rocket.