Nick Suzuki learns of Canadiens' $76M move with Dobson during a wedding bus ride in Scotland. Exciting franchise shift!
On June 27, 2025, the Montreal Canadiens dramatically altered their future by executing a high-stakes trade during the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL Draft, immediately backing the acquisition with a $76 million long-term contract. Captain <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/tag/nick-suzuki/”>Nick Suzuki found out about this significant move while far from the team, aboard a wedding bus in Scotland, reflecting the unexpected nature of the announcement.
At the time the trade rumors surfaced, Suzuki and teammate Cole Caufield were celebrating with former teammate Joel Edmundson when social media buzz caused tension. Suzuki told The Athletic’s Arpon Basu,
“Me and Cole were sitting on a bus leaving Eddy’s wedding when a bunch of tweets started coming out,”
adding,
“So me and Cole were kind of freaking out on the bus home.”
Despite the surprise and initial shock, Suzuki quickly sought clarity by contacting the player involved in the rumors. That player, though the deal was not yet official, hinted at wanting the move to happen. Hours later, the Canadiens confirmed acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders, signing him to an eight-year extension. To complete the transaction, Montreal traded forward Emil Heineman and two first-round picks from the 2025 draft to New York, a hefty price for a promising blueliner entering his prime.
Building New Team Chemistry Around Noah Dobson
Suzuki expressed enthusiasm about Dobson’s arrival, noting their past connection as roommates during Team Canada’s 2019 World Juniortraining camp. This prior relationship, Suzuki stated, should ease Dobson’s integration into the team. He said,
Image of: Nick Suzuki
“It was pretty cool. It’s nice to have that addition, he’s an amazing player and a good guy too,”
highlighting the positive impact Dobson is expected to have.
Beyond Dobson, the Canadiens are also adding young forward Zach Bolduc, which further strengthens the roster depth. Suzuki recognized the significance of this shift:
“It’s exciting because for a while we’ve been trading guys away,”
he remarked,
“Now, adding really good NHL players feels like a shift for everyone.”
This trade signals a breakout moment for a franchise long focused on rebuilding through draft picks and gradual development.
Nick Suzuki’s Leadership as the Canadiens’ Cornerstone
Coming off his best season, with a career-high 89 points and the team’s first playoff appearance under his captaincy, Nick Suzuki has established himself as the pivotal figure in Montreal’s future. His on-ice chemistry with Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky has formed one of the league’s most dynamic young lines, raising expectations for the upcoming season.
Suzuki remains grounded despite the growing attention and raised hopes. He shared his perspective:
“Our expectations for ourselves were higher than the media and the fans had, so I don’t think it’s any different this year,”
and added,
“I want to be in the same spot or better. I think we have the team to do that.”
His focus reflects determination to match or exceed previous successes while helping the team build towards sustained competitiveness.
Implications for the Canadiens’ Future
The investment in Noah Dobson via the $76 million contract, paired with the acquisition of promising young talent, marks a bold new chapter for Montreal. This move may accelerate the team’s quest to rejoin the contenders, signaling management’s commitment to creating a competitive, balanced roster around Suzuki’s leadership. With the captain setting a determined tone, the Canadiens aim to harness their renewed depth and skill to achieve stronger results in the coming seasons.
