The New York Islanders stunned fans by trading defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens during this NHL offseason, marking a significant moment for the team’s future. Known as a key piece on the Islanders’ blue line, Dobson’s departure signifies a major shift in the team’s long-term strategy.
Matt Martin, a longtime Islanders veteran who recently announced his retirement, discussed the trade candidly on the Cam & Strick Podcast. Having spent over a decade with the Islanders, Martin witnessed Dobson’s impact firsthand and shared his perspective on the consequences of this move for the team.
A lot transpired with the team between the Dobson trade, the draft, getting the first overall pick, and bringing two other great draft prospects,
Martin said.
According to Martin, the trade was more than a simple roster change; it reflected a deliberate decision by the Islanders to rebuild from the ground up. The front office’s intent to reshape the team was evident, as the trade involved more than just moving a talented player—it reshuffled the franchise’s foundation.
Martin also recounted a conversation with Mathieu Darche, an experienced Islanders executive who played a key role in the trade negotiations.
Going through a trade like Dobbers, you might not ever see that again,
Martin recalled.
This rare move was especially notable given Dobson’s youth and skill level. Drafted twelfth overall in 2018, he had grown into a reliable defenseman, logging substantial ice time, leading the power play, and matching up against top opponents. His departure was not only difficult for fans but deeply felt within the locker room.
I think things were always extremely cordial,
Martin explained.
Darche has said a million times, ‘Dobson’s a great player, we’d love to keep him.’ But things don’t always work out that way. I think ultimately they’d still love to have him here.
Martin’s remarks underscore that even when intentions are in place to retain a player like Dobson, circumstances can override those wishes.
Impact of the Dobson Trade on Montreal and the Islanders’ Future
With Noah Dobson joining the Montreal Canadiens, their defensive lineup has strengthened considerably, adding a steady presence to support their young core. Dobson is expected to take on a leading role that anchors Montreal’s blue line as the team advances its rebuilding efforts.
Meanwhile, the Islanders secured forward Emil Heineman and two first-round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, creating salary cap space and gathering assets that align with their commitment to restructuring the roster strategically over time.
This transaction signaled contrasting yet complementary ambitions from both organizations: Montreal actively pursuing a cornerstone defenseman to accelerate its surge, and New York focusing on future flexibility by acquiring promising prospects and draft capital.
While both teams gained valuable pieces, the trade left an enduring emotional imprint on the Islanders’ identity. Dobson was emblematic of the team’s vision, and moving him marked a poignant moment for players, staff, and supporters alike.
As Martin emphasized, Dobson wasn’t simply a player on the roster but a symbol of what the Islanders had been striving to build. His trade served as a hard reminder of the sacrifices involved in rebuilding, even when they hold hope for future success.
Now, all eyes will be on Montreal as Dobson begins this next stage of his career, while Islanders fans watch from afar, wishing the best for a player they still clearly value and hoping this bold move ultimately strengthens their franchise in the years ahead.