Canadiens Targeting Big-Name RFA Blue-Liner: Inside Scoop from NHL Insider…read more…

Canadiens Targeting Big-Name RFA Blue-Liner: Inside Scoop from NHL Insider…read more…

The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly in the mix for a significant upgrade on their blue-line, with a major push underway to acquire restricted free-agent (RFA) defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders.

Insider Chris Johnston, during the June 26 edition of Insider Trading, revealed that “the Montreal Canadiens and St. Louis Blues are among those that have been involved to this point with Dobson,” adding that Montreal would first need to orchestrate a trade with the Islanders and then secure Dobson through a new contract .

Why Dobson Is a Hot Commodity

The 25-year-old right-shot defenseman has been a production machine, posting a career-high 70 points (10 goals, 60 assists) during the 2023–24 season — the first Islanders’ blueliner to reach that mark since the legendary Denis Potvin . Though Dobson’s offensive output dipped to 39 points in 71 games last season, his blend of size, skating, and puck-moving remains highly coveted by NHL franchises, including Montreal .

Financial and Cap Constraints

Dobson, still under RFA status, is expected to command a hefty contract in the range of $11 million AAV over three–five years . With only about $6 million in cap space available, the Canadiens face a significant hurdle. To free up sufficient room, they may need to offload contracts, with Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit or Mike Matheson’s deal being potential targets—although Matheson’s modified no-trade clause adds complexity .

That being said, the Canadiens could delay a major roster shake-up until after the 2025 NHL Draft and the official opening of free agency, giving them more flexibility in constructing the trade and offer sheet structure .

Trade Rumor Dynamics

From Montreal’s perspective, the first challenge is securing a trade with the Islanders. Rumors suggest the Islanders may be seeking one of Montreal’s two first-round picks in the 2025 Draft, possibly in a straight-up player-for-pick exchange . New York appears open to exploring the market for Dobson, as his cap hit and pending free agency present multiple openings for the Islanders to consider offers.

Competitive Market

Dobson is widely recognized as one of the top RFAs available this offseason. According to Sportsnet, he ranks No. 3 on their list of top 12 RFAs of 2025, with the Islanders “testing the market” due to anticipated eight‑figure salary demands . With a growing list of teams interested—likely including Detroit and others—the Canadiens could find themselves amid a significant bidding war.

Canadiens’ Strategy: Bold or Too Bold?

Montreal’s management clearly sees the value in landing a puck-moving presence like Dobson, one who could thrive in power-play situations and drive possession. But the financial gamble is steep: to bring him aboard, Montreal must commit major cap space, likely surrender a high draft asset, and successfully finalize a long-term contract.

As Johnston pointed out, the Canadiens must be “certain they can ink Noah Dobson” before moving forward. With free agency looming on July 1 and draft night rapidly approaching, expect Montreal’s front office to work feverishly to assemble a convincing proposal if they hope to land the high-profile d‑man.

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Montreal’s interest in Dobson isn’t just noise—it may mark a pivotal moment for a franchise ready to elevate its defense. But with cap limitations, draft assets, and contract negotiations hanging in the balance, the gamble promises to be high-stakes. If Montreal pulls it off, they would land a true difference-maker who could redefine their blueline for years to come.

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Feel free to let me know if you’d like to dive deeper into contract scenarios, comparable trades, or the Islanders’ perspective!