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Respectfully, Islanders have no single player who returns Knies. Does Dobson return 22 year old Brady Tkachuk?
Friedman: Islanders “testing the market” on Dobson
- Thread starter Big Daddy Cane
- Start date
Respectfully, Islanders have no single player who returns Knies. Does Dobson return 22 year old Brady Tkachuk?
Not just because of PR at all. Hagens is still a great prospect with potential top line upside comparable to Cooley by the scouts despite being picked apart this year. No brainer to take Hagens for NYI for that reason if they can find a partner but which rebuilding team would want to pay Dobson instead of just drafting Hagens.
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General Fanager
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General Fanager
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Rob Brown
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General Fanager
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Rob Brown
Way She Goes
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General Fanager
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Not really since my team doesn't have any of the 3 guys I mentioned but summer just started. You never know
I'm not an Islanders fan but as it stands I think pinto Is great but would be looking to use the pick at 21 to move up and snag hagens so pinto could work for that but feel as though pinto-yak-21 is good value but with the direction of the isle I think more futures would benefit them especially since trading away Dobson would signal a rebuild so instead of pinto 21,27 2nd and 2 of the 26 3rds seems like equal value to pinto if not a little more. They get to keep the goal scoring 3c at the cost of decent futures although I'd argue that fair value would be the 27 1st top 5 protected instead of the 27 2nd
periferal
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Of course it's at least somewhat PR. Know how to prove it...?
Those Isles fans (and NHL fans in general) never suggest the Isles trade back up into the top 5 to select Misa (or Martone, Desnoyers, etc). If we're solely doing what's best for the Islanders ONLY for on the ice purposes, well everyone agrees that Misa is a better prospect, so why is no one saying to trade back up for him? I mean why not come away with the best 2 players in this draft?
Also if Hagans was from St. Louis and was a Blues fan absolutely ZERO NHL fans anywhere would be connecting him with the Isles.
People love a story and Hagens to the Isles is a good one for their franchise, and the NHL overall if he became a success there.
But no one should sit there for a second and say with a straight face that all this "Hagens to the Islanders" talk has NOTHING to do with PR. The fact it's being talked about this much goes to show you it's a factor. Not the only factor, but a big one.
Giant Panda
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Redundancy and fit.
Same reason why Leafs fans included Minten in every trade package up until they traded him. Same reason why the Habs traded away Romanov, Barron, and Harris over the last couple years.
Mailloux looks good in the AHL and is projecting to be a good NHLer, he's got a lot of flaws but a lot of skills that not many prospects have. He just doesn't really have a place on the Habs roster moving forward, through no fault of his own.
Habs have high hopes for their future that includes Hutson, Ghule, and Reinbacher, they need a great RD to play with them not another offensive dman.
He's an offensive dman, Habs have Hutson. He's a PP quarterback with a great shot, Habs have Hutson on PP1. He's a RD prospect who doesn't play a shutdown game, Habs have Reinbacher who's looking great and have Guhle to do the job. The play of Engstrom in Laval and a who mob of depth like Struble and Xhekaj means he wouldn't have a role outside of the top 4 moving forward.
Habs don't need an offensive dman, they need a shutdown guy (even one who doesn't have a lot of production). They need a stabilizing presence on RD. Mailloux is a good prospect but he's out there because he's a redundancy in the system.
periferal
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Cool. Well if pending UFA Brock Nelson can get a 1st and Cal Ritchie, probably not interested in any team's "4th best prospect." And one who does have a shady event on his resume.
Not trading a 25 year old right-handed puck moving defenseman defenseman with 1st pairing upside (who clearly wouldn't reach his potential on a low-scoring/flawed Islanders roster) unless the return is along the lines of a 2026 1st and a top-end prospect. Otherwise you just resign him.
NYI has a new GM, so he's taking an outsider view on Dobson. They are keeping Roy and Dobson hasn't played as well under him as he did under Trotz (also factor in expectations of a 19-21 year old) vs a 22-24 year old too. Is that going to change in the coming year?
Are they prepared to pay him and do they view that he's worth that kind of price? 25-33 is his age on a max term deal, so if he's good, they should get all prime years out of him.
They are in an interesting position with a bunch of 30 something vets like Pelech, Pulloch, Mayfield, Horvat, Lee, Pageau, Palmeri on the roster. Barzal is 28, Dobson and Romanov are 25. Holmstrom is 24. They have a gap after that with all of the draft capital they moved in the 202X's.
RHD are very valuable. And a lot of teams that missed the PO have a desire to try to improve. Probably wise to see what the market is and then they can decide the best course of action for the team.
Also, Dobson would be like Tkachuck, Trouba, Reinhart, Fiala, etc. who were 1 year out of UFA when dealt. So, while no trade protection, likely eliminates teams where he won't sign long term with.
Are they prepared to pay him and do they view that he's worth that kind of price? 25-33 is his age on a max term deal, so if he's good, they should get all prime years out of him.
They are in an interesting position with a bunch of 30 something vets like Pelech, Pulloch, Mayfield, Horvat, Lee, Pageau, Palmeri on the roster. Barzal is 28, Dobson and Romanov are 25. Holmstrom is 24. They have a gap after that with all of the draft capital they moved in the 202X's.
RHD are very valuable. And a lot of teams that missed the PO have a desire to try to improve. Probably wise to see what the market is and then they can decide the best course of action for the team.
Also, Dobson would be like Tkachuck, Trouba, Reinhart, Fiala, etc. who were 1 year out of UFA when dealt. So, while no trade protection, likely eliminates teams where he won't sign long term with.
ScoutyMcScoutface
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Glorydays22
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As an Isles fan, I think you are right...Dobson came with a huge number but he had to, same agent as Bouchard. Bouchard will get 11M, Dobson will settle in at 9.5M at the end of the day.
Now the question is, does Isles mgmt want to give him 9.5M, not sure.
The Nelson trade was a massive, massive win for NYI. If that’s what you’re basing your expectations from now on for your players you are going to be very disappointed for a very long time.
Glorydays22
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Pinto is NOT 1-1 equal to Dobson in NO way...Ottawa needs to add
ManofSteel55
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Right, because the Leafs are so hard to find, and get absolutely no media coverage. Ffs.
SI90
Registered User
This issue has been going on for months within the Islanders fan base with people on both sides of the track someone want to trade Dobson others don’t. I do agree that paying him 11 million AAV would be too much but I don’t think it will come in that. Here’s my thoughts and reasoning.
Dobsons Strengths
Dobber, a 25-year-old right-shot defenseman has established himself as one of the NHL's promising young blueliners. Originally drafted by the isles in the first round, he’s homegrown, making him a cornerstone of the Islanders’ defense:
- Elite Offensive Production Dobson is a dynamic offensive defenseman with exceptional skating, vision, and puck-handling skills. His ability to quarterback the power play is a standout trait, as evidenced by his 19 power-play points in the 2022-23 season and his role as the primary power-play quarterback for the Islanders. His 70-point season (10 goals, 60 assists) in 2023-24 demonstrates his elite scoring touch, placing him among the league’s top offensive defensemen.
- Skating and Mobility Dobson’s skating is a significant asset, described as one of the best among NHL defensemen. His ability to transition the puck from the defensive zone to the offensive zone with speed and precision allows him to lead rushes and create scoring opportunities. His mobility was a hallmark of his junior career and has translated effectively to the NHL.
- Hockey Sense and Vision Dobson possesses excellent hockey sense, enabling him to make smart decisions under pressure. His vision on the ice allows him to find open teammates and set up plays, particularly on the power play, where his passing is precise and effective. he also has a great ability to get shots through and on net at different angles and speeds.
- Two-Way Potential While primarily known for his offensive prowess, Dobson has shown improvement in his defensive game. The eye test at times was a bit rough this year, but there was also underlying circumstances like injuries and team struggles. In 2023-24, he logged significant minutes (averaging 24:31 per game) and demonstrated reliability in all situations, including penalty-killing duties. His 180 blocked shots and 84 hits in the 2023-24 season highlight his growing defensive commitment, though he still has room to refine his defensive-zone play to reduce turnovers.
- Youth and Prime Years At 25, Dobson is just entering his prime, with his best years likely ahead. His combination of youth, right-shot handedness, and offensive production makes him a rare asset in the NHL.
- Durability and Workload Dobson has proven capable of handling a heavy workload, playing nearly 25 minutes per night during his breakout 2023-24 season. His ability to log big minutes in all situations makes him a critical piece of the Islanders’ defensive core.
Rarity of a 70-Point Season for a Defenseman at Age 24
A 70-point season for a defenseman is exceptionally rare, especially for someone as young as Dobson was during the 2023-24 season (age 24). To put this in perspective:
- Dobson became the first Islanders defenseman since Denis Potvin (1983-84) to record a 70-point season, a feat achieved in 79 games (10 goals, 60 assists). Potvin, a Hall of Famer, is one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history, showing the elite company Dobson joins. We haven’t had a defenseman like this since Potvin. Now with Dobson and potentially drafting Schaefer, we can have two elite defenseman, that’s extremely rare to have on a team.
- Age Rarity Since the 2000-01 season, only a handful of defensemen aged 24 or younger have reached 70 points in a single NHL season. Notable examples include:
- **Erik Karlsson** (2011-12, age 21): 78 points
- **Cale Makar** (2021-22, age 23): 86 points
- **Quinn Hughes** (2022-23, age 23): 76 points
- **Rasmus Dahlin** (2022-23, age 22): 73 points
Dobson’s 70 points at age 24 place him among this elite group, with only 7 defensemen aged 24 or younger reaching this mark in the last 25 years (based on NHL data). This rarity highlights his exceptional offensive talent, as fewer than 1% of NHL defensemen achieve this production level at such a young age.
- Right-Shot Scarcity Right-shot defensemen with Dobson’s offensive capabilities are particularly rare. The NHL values right-shot defensemen highly, and those capable of producing 70 points while playing top-pairing minutes are even scarcer, making Dobson a unique asset.
Argument and Benefits for Signing Dobson Long-Term
Signing Noah Dobson to a long-term extension is the best course of action for the New York Islanders due to his unique skill set, youth, and potential to anchor their defense for the next decade. Here’s why…
1. Cornerstone Defenseman At 25, Dobson is a proven top-pairing defenseman with elite offensive skills and improving defensive play. His 70-point season in 2023-24, combined with his ability to log big minutes, makes him a cornerstone player who can lead the Islanders’ blue line. Trading him would leave a massive hole that is nearly impossible to fill, as 6’4 right-shot defensemen with his skill set “do not grow on trees.”
2. Prime Years Ahead Dobson is just entering his prime, and his 2023-24 season suggests he could consistently produce 50-60 points, with the potential for more 70-point campaigns. Locking him up long-term (an 8-year deal) ensures the Islanders retain a player who could be a Norris Trophy contender in his peak years. A bridge deal might save cap space short-term but risks a higher cap hit later when the salary cap rises and Dobson’s value increases.
3. Cost Certainty The salary cap is projected to rise significantly in coming years, making a long-term deal at $8.5 -$9.5 million annually a potentially team-friendly contract if Dobson maintains or exceeds his current production. AFP Analytics projected an 8-year deal with a cap hit of over $10 million, but a 6-8 year deal at $9-9.5 million could be more palatable and secure his services through his prime.
4. Leadership and Stability Dobson’s presence provides stability to a defensive core that includes veterans like Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock, as well as younger players like Alexander Romanov. His chemistry with Pelech, in particular, produced elite on-ice results (71.2% expected goals percentage), suggesting he can elevate his partners. Keeping Dobson ensures a strong defensive foundation as the Islanders integrate prospects like Matthew Schaefer. Dobson is also a two-time memorial cup champion while being a captain and leader in the QMJHL.
5. Fan and Team Identity Dobson is a homegrown talent who has developed into a star for the Islanders. Obviously winning is all that matters and if you can trade for good players, it doesn’t matter if you drafted them or not. However, when you have homegrown talent, there is an extra pulse. It brings and pride for the fan base. GM Mathieu Darche has publicly emphasized Dobson’s value, indicating a commitment to building around him.
6. Recently history Trading Dobson for picks or prospects, as seen in past Islanders trades like Devon Toews, often brings diminishing returns. Toews was traded due to cap constraints, and the Islanders regretted it, as he became a key piece for Colorado and an elite defensman in the NHL and for team Canada. Dobson’s value as a proven NHL star outweighs the uncertainty of future assets.
Argument for Trading Noah Dobson
While keeping Dobson long-term is preferable, there are scenarios where trading him could benefit the Islanders, particularly if they prioritize addressing other roster needs:
1. Addressing Offensive Needs The Islanders’ offense has been a weak point, and trading Dobson could net an elite forward to transform their forward group. Names like Jason Robertson or Jordan Kyrou have been floated as potential trade targets, offering immediate scoring punch and long-term offensive stability. Such a trade could address the Islanders’ need for a game-breaking forward to complement Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal.
2. Cap Flexibility Dobson’s next contract could carry a cap hit of $9-$10 million annually, a significant portion of the Islanders’ cap space. Trading him before his RFA status expires could free up cap room to sign multiple players or address other needs, such as retaining Alexander Romanov or signing a top-six forward. With veterans like Scott Mayfield and Ryan Pulock carrying no-trade clauses, Dobson is one of the few movable high-value assets.
3. Leveraging Market Value -asset management, Despite a down 2024-25 season (39 points in 68 games), Dobson’s 70-point campaign and youth make him a highly valuable trade chip. A seller’s market, as noted in recent reports, could allow the Islanders to demand a blockbuster return, including a top forward, prospects, and draft picks. This could accelerate a retool around younger players like Matthew Schaefer Cole Eiserman and Ritchie.
4. Defensive Depth The Islanders have options on defense, including Adam Pelech, Ryan Pulock, and Alexander Romanov, with prospects like Isaiah George and potentially Matthew Schaefer in the pipeline. Trading Dobson could allow them to redistribute minutes and cap space while relying on players like Adam Boqvist or Tony DeAngelo, who have shown offensive flashes in limited roles.
5. Risk management Dobson’s 2024-25 season was marred by injury and a dip in production (39 points), raising questions about whether he’s a consistent 70-point player or closer to a 40-50-point defenseman. Trading him at peak value avoids the risk of overpaying for a long-term deal if he doesn’t return to his 2023-24 form. A bridge deal could mitigate this risk, but trading him now could capitalize on his perceived value
Benefits of Dobson Supporting Matthew Schaefer
Drafting Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft introduces a high-upside defenseman to the Islanders’ system. Schaefer, a 6’2, 183-pound dman, is praised for his elite skating and two-way potential but may not be NHL-ready immediately due to his age (17), frame, and a recent collarbone injury. Dobson’s presence on the roster provides significant benefits in alleviating pressure on Schaefer. Schaefer doesn’t have to be the savior or the man right away. he can develop at his own pace and get comfortable.
1. Mentorship and Development Dobson, as a former high draft pick (12th overall) who transitioned from junior to the NHL, can serve as a mentor for Schaefer. His experience navigating the pressures of being a top prospect and developing into a top-pairing defenseman can guide Schaefer, who faces immense expectations as a potential No. 1 pick. Dobson’s leadership on and off the ice can help Schaefer adjust to the NHL’s demands. Dobson was a star defenseman in Junior and for team Canada so that would be good for Schaeffer to have around him. Dobber knows exactly what Schaefer has been through.
2. Reduced Pressure With Dobson as the established No. 1 defenseman, Schaefer can develop without the immediate burden of carrying the blue line. Dobson’s ability to log big minutes (24-25 per game) and quarterback the power play allows Schaefer to ease into a third-pairing or second-pairing role, potentially alongside a veteran like Pulock or Mayfield,who complements offensive defensemen. This gradual integration mirrors Dobson’s own development path, where he wasn’t rushed into a top role as a rookie. I made a post earlier that if Schaeffer doesn’t go back to juniors, maybe giving him 40 to 50 games practicing with the NHL team in between to get his feet wet. However, I do personally believe because extremely young age and time is from injury he should take another year.
3. Complementary Skill Sets Schaefer’s skating and two-way game align well with Dobson’s offensive style. If paired together in the future, they could form a dynamic top pairing, with Dobson’s playmaking complementing Schaefer’s defensive instincts. Keeping Dobson ensures the Islanders have a proven star to anchor the defense while Schaefer matures, potentially creating one of the NHL’s best defensive cores.
4. Team Stability The Islanders’ defensive core, including Dobson, Pelech, and Pulock, and Romanov provides a stable foundation for Schaefer to join. Dobson’s presence ensures the team remains competitive while Schaefer develops in the OHL, NCAA, or eventually the AHL avoiding the need to rush him to the NHL before he’s ready. This stability is critical given Schaefer’s limited experience (25 games last season) and injury concerns.
5. Long-Term Vision Retaining Dobson aligns with the Islanders’ goal of building a contending team around young talent like Schaefer, Calum Ritchie, and Cole Eiserman. Dobson’s experience and production can bridge the gap between the current core and the next generation, ensuring the Islanders remain playoff contenders while integrating prospects.
And finally
Sign Dobson Long-Term The case for keeping Noah Dobson outweighs the benefits of trading him. His rare combination of youth, right-shot handedness, and elite offensive production (highlighted by his 70-point season at age 24) makes him a cornerstone player who is nearly impossible to replace. His presence stabilizes the Islanders’ defense, mentors prospects like Matthew Schaefer, and ensures competitiveness during a retool. While trading Dobson could yield an elite forward or cap relief, the risk of losing a top-tier defenseman entering his prime far outweighs the potential return, especially given past lessons like the Devon Toews trade. A long-term extension at $9-$9.5 million annually secures a franchise defenseman and supports Schaefer’s development by alleviating pressure, making it the smarter long-term strategy.
Dobsons Strengths
Dobber, a 25-year-old right-shot defenseman has established himself as one of the NHL's promising young blueliners. Originally drafted by the isles in the first round, he’s homegrown, making him a cornerstone of the Islanders’ defense:
- Elite Offensive Production Dobson is a dynamic offensive defenseman with exceptional skating, vision, and puck-handling skills. His ability to quarterback the power play is a standout trait, as evidenced by his 19 power-play points in the 2022-23 season and his role as the primary power-play quarterback for the Islanders. His 70-point season (10 goals, 60 assists) in 2023-24 demonstrates his elite scoring touch, placing him among the league’s top offensive defensemen.
- Skating and Mobility Dobson’s skating is a significant asset, described as one of the best among NHL defensemen. His ability to transition the puck from the defensive zone to the offensive zone with speed and precision allows him to lead rushes and create scoring opportunities. His mobility was a hallmark of his junior career and has translated effectively to the NHL.
- Hockey Sense and Vision Dobson possesses excellent hockey sense, enabling him to make smart decisions under pressure. His vision on the ice allows him to find open teammates and set up plays, particularly on the power play, where his passing is precise and effective. he also has a great ability to get shots through and on net at different angles and speeds.
- Two-Way Potential While primarily known for his offensive prowess, Dobson has shown improvement in his defensive game. The eye test at times was a bit rough this year, but there was also underlying circumstances like injuries and team struggles. In 2023-24, he logged significant minutes (averaging 24:31 per game) and demonstrated reliability in all situations, including penalty-killing duties. His 180 blocked shots and 84 hits in the 2023-24 season highlight his growing defensive commitment, though he still has room to refine his defensive-zone play to reduce turnovers.
- Youth and Prime Years At 25, Dobson is just entering his prime, with his best years likely ahead. His combination of youth, right-shot handedness, and offensive production makes him a rare asset in the NHL.
- Durability and Workload Dobson has proven capable of handling a heavy workload, playing nearly 25 minutes per night during his breakout 2023-24 season. His ability to log big minutes in all situations makes him a critical piece of the Islanders’ defensive core.
Rarity of a 70-Point Season for a Defenseman at Age 24
A 70-point season for a defenseman is exceptionally rare, especially for someone as young as Dobson was during the 2023-24 season (age 24). To put this in perspective:
- Dobson became the first Islanders defenseman since Denis Potvin (1983-84) to record a 70-point season, a feat achieved in 79 games (10 goals, 60 assists). Potvin, a Hall of Famer, is one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history, showing the elite company Dobson joins. We haven’t had a defenseman like this since Potvin. Now with Dobson and potentially drafting Schaefer, we can have two elite defenseman, that’s extremely rare to have on a team.
- Age Rarity Since the 2000-01 season, only a handful of defensemen aged 24 or younger have reached 70 points in a single NHL season. Notable examples include:
- **Erik Karlsson** (2011-12, age 21): 78 points
- **Cale Makar** (2021-22, age 23): 86 points
- **Quinn Hughes** (2022-23, age 23): 76 points
- **Rasmus Dahlin** (2022-23, age 22): 73 points
Dobson’s 70 points at age 24 place him among this elite group, with only 7 defensemen aged 24 or younger reaching this mark in the last 25 years (based on NHL data). This rarity highlights his exceptional offensive talent, as fewer than 1% of NHL defensemen achieve this production level at such a young age.
- Right-Shot Scarcity Right-shot defensemen with Dobson’s offensive capabilities are particularly rare. The NHL values right-shot defensemen highly, and those capable of producing 70 points while playing top-pairing minutes are even scarcer, making Dobson a unique asset.
Argument and Benefits for Signing Dobson Long-Term
Signing Noah Dobson to a long-term extension is the best course of action for the New York Islanders due to his unique skill set, youth, and potential to anchor their defense for the next decade. Here’s why…
1. Cornerstone Defenseman At 25, Dobson is a proven top-pairing defenseman with elite offensive skills and improving defensive play. His 70-point season in 2023-24, combined with his ability to log big minutes, makes him a cornerstone player who can lead the Islanders’ blue line. Trading him would leave a massive hole that is nearly impossible to fill, as 6’4 right-shot defensemen with his skill set “do not grow on trees.”
2. Prime Years Ahead Dobson is just entering his prime, and his 2023-24 season suggests he could consistently produce 50-60 points, with the potential for more 70-point campaigns. Locking him up long-term (an 8-year deal) ensures the Islanders retain a player who could be a Norris Trophy contender in his peak years. A bridge deal might save cap space short-term but risks a higher cap hit later when the salary cap rises and Dobson’s value increases.
3. Cost Certainty The salary cap is projected to rise significantly in coming years, making a long-term deal at $8.5 -$9.5 million annually a potentially team-friendly contract if Dobson maintains or exceeds his current production. AFP Analytics projected an 8-year deal with a cap hit of over $10 million, but a 6-8 year deal at $9-9.5 million could be more palatable and secure his services through his prime.
4. Leadership and Stability Dobson’s presence provides stability to a defensive core that includes veterans like Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock, as well as younger players like Alexander Romanov. His chemistry with Pelech, in particular, produced elite on-ice results (71.2% expected goals percentage), suggesting he can elevate his partners. Keeping Dobson ensures a strong defensive foundation as the Islanders integrate prospects like Matthew Schaefer. Dobson is also a two-time memorial cup champion while being a captain and leader in the QMJHL.
5. Fan and Team Identity Dobson is a homegrown talent who has developed into a star for the Islanders. Obviously winning is all that matters and if you can trade for good players, it doesn’t matter if you drafted them or not. However, when you have homegrown talent, there is an extra pulse. It brings and pride for the fan base. GM Mathieu Darche has publicly emphasized Dobson’s value, indicating a commitment to building around him.
6. Recently history Trading Dobson for picks or prospects, as seen in past Islanders trades like Devon Toews, often brings diminishing returns. Toews was traded due to cap constraints, and the Islanders regretted it, as he became a key piece for Colorado and an elite defensman in the NHL and for team Canada. Dobson’s value as a proven NHL star outweighs the uncertainty of future assets.
Argument for Trading Noah Dobson
While keeping Dobson long-term is preferable, there are scenarios where trading him could benefit the Islanders, particularly if they prioritize addressing other roster needs:
1. Addressing Offensive Needs The Islanders’ offense has been a weak point, and trading Dobson could net an elite forward to transform their forward group. Names like Jason Robertson or Jordan Kyrou have been floated as potential trade targets, offering immediate scoring punch and long-term offensive stability. Such a trade could address the Islanders’ need for a game-breaking forward to complement Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal.
2. Cap Flexibility Dobson’s next contract could carry a cap hit of $9-$10 million annually, a significant portion of the Islanders’ cap space. Trading him before his RFA status expires could free up cap room to sign multiple players or address other needs, such as retaining Alexander Romanov or signing a top-six forward. With veterans like Scott Mayfield and Ryan Pulock carrying no-trade clauses, Dobson is one of the few movable high-value assets.
3. Leveraging Market Value -asset management, Despite a down 2024-25 season (39 points in 68 games), Dobson’s 70-point campaign and youth make him a highly valuable trade chip. A seller’s market, as noted in recent reports, could allow the Islanders to demand a blockbuster return, including a top forward, prospects, and draft picks. This could accelerate a retool around younger players like Matthew Schaefer Cole Eiserman and Ritchie.
4. Defensive Depth The Islanders have options on defense, including Adam Pelech, Ryan Pulock, and Alexander Romanov, with prospects like Isaiah George and potentially Matthew Schaefer in the pipeline. Trading Dobson could allow them to redistribute minutes and cap space while relying on players like Adam Boqvist or Tony DeAngelo, who have shown offensive flashes in limited roles.
5. Risk management Dobson’s 2024-25 season was marred by injury and a dip in production (39 points), raising questions about whether he’s a consistent 70-point player or closer to a 40-50-point defenseman. Trading him at peak value avoids the risk of overpaying for a long-term deal if he doesn’t return to his 2023-24 form. A bridge deal could mitigate this risk, but trading him now could capitalize on his perceived value
Benefits of Dobson Supporting Matthew Schaefer
Drafting Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft introduces a high-upside defenseman to the Islanders’ system. Schaefer, a 6’2, 183-pound dman, is praised for his elite skating and two-way potential but may not be NHL-ready immediately due to his age (17), frame, and a recent collarbone injury. Dobson’s presence on the roster provides significant benefits in alleviating pressure on Schaefer. Schaefer doesn’t have to be the savior or the man right away. he can develop at his own pace and get comfortable.
1. Mentorship and Development Dobson, as a former high draft pick (12th overall) who transitioned from junior to the NHL, can serve as a mentor for Schaefer. His experience navigating the pressures of being a top prospect and developing into a top-pairing defenseman can guide Schaefer, who faces immense expectations as a potential No. 1 pick. Dobson’s leadership on and off the ice can help Schaefer adjust to the NHL’s demands. Dobson was a star defenseman in Junior and for team Canada so that would be good for Schaeffer to have around him. Dobber knows exactly what Schaefer has been through.
2. Reduced Pressure With Dobson as the established No. 1 defenseman, Schaefer can develop without the immediate burden of carrying the blue line. Dobson’s ability to log big minutes (24-25 per game) and quarterback the power play allows Schaefer to ease into a third-pairing or second-pairing role, potentially alongside a veteran like Pulock or Mayfield,who complements offensive defensemen. This gradual integration mirrors Dobson’s own development path, where he wasn’t rushed into a top role as a rookie. I made a post earlier that if Schaeffer doesn’t go back to juniors, maybe giving him 40 to 50 games practicing with the NHL team in between to get his feet wet. However, I do personally believe because extremely young age and time is from injury he should take another year.
3. Complementary Skill Sets Schaefer’s skating and two-way game align well with Dobson’s offensive style. If paired together in the future, they could form a dynamic top pairing, with Dobson’s playmaking complementing Schaefer’s defensive instincts. Keeping Dobson ensures the Islanders have a proven star to anchor the defense while Schaefer matures, potentially creating one of the NHL’s best defensive cores.
4. Team Stability The Islanders’ defensive core, including Dobson, Pelech, and Pulock, and Romanov provides a stable foundation for Schaefer to join. Dobson’s presence ensures the team remains competitive while Schaefer develops in the OHL, NCAA, or eventually the AHL avoiding the need to rush him to the NHL before he’s ready. This stability is critical given Schaefer’s limited experience (25 games last season) and injury concerns.
5. Long-Term Vision Retaining Dobson aligns with the Islanders’ goal of building a contending team around young talent like Schaefer, Calum Ritchie, and Cole Eiserman. Dobson’s experience and production can bridge the gap between the current core and the next generation, ensuring the Islanders remain playoff contenders while integrating prospects.
And finally
Sign Dobson Long-Term The case for keeping Noah Dobson outweighs the benefits of trading him. His rare combination of youth, right-shot handedness, and elite offensive production (highlighted by his 70-point season at age 24) makes him a cornerstone player who is nearly impossible to replace. His presence stabilizes the Islanders’ defense, mentors prospects like Matthew Schaefer, and ensures competitiveness during a retool. While trading Dobson could yield an elite forward or cap relief, the risk of losing a top-tier defenseman entering his prime far outweighs the potential return, especially given past lessons like the Devon Toews trade. A long-term extension at $9-$9.5 million annually secures a franchise defenseman and supports Schaefer’s development by alleviating pressure, making it the smarter long-term strategy.
KirkAlbuquerque
#FireSullivan
periferal
Registered User
- Jul 5, 2007
- 29,356
- 18,574
Calm down dude. Everything is case by case. I'm not expecting anything, not do I control what NHL team does.
What I do know is what Dobson's value is taking into account his age, talent, potential, hockey sense, position he plays, the fact he shoots right, played for one of the lowest scoring teams, etc. And based off that if the Isles don't get a very good deal for him then you just resign him.
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