Player Discussion: Noah Dobson

[The Winter Soldier]

I don’t know that Dobson is ready for a full NHL season yet.

He’s shown flashes in sheltered ice time which is great to see but I’m not ready to give him Johnny Boychuk’s spot yet, especially if Andy Greene is not set to return to the Island.

Depending on the camp Dobson has next fall/winter, he might be best served by starting the season in Bridgeport.

Yeah that's the question that will have to be answered by Noah. If I were a GM I am going to bet on him. One of Boychuck or Leddy will have to be moved it looks. Noah is a right D, I would put him at #2D right behind Pulock. 1-2 punch for 6-7 years right there.

 

[PWJunior]

I don’t know that Dobson is ready for a full NHL season yet.

He’s shown flashes in sheltered ice time which is great to see but I’m not ready to give him Johnny Boychuk’s spot yet, especially if Andy Greene is not set to return to the Island.

Depending on the camp Dobson has next fall/winter, he might be best served by starting the season in Bridgeport.

I think it's more about role than specific roster spot. I think we saw glimpses of what Trotz wants out of Dobson, play a sheltered offensive role with PP time. It's going to take time for the defensive play to be more consistent, but his strengths have been more on the offensive side more similar to Leddy than to Boychuk.

We're stuck with Boychuk for next year unless the NHL surprises us with 2 CBO's. The old man is still a stalwart on the PK, but his ice time has decreased to 3rd pair levels now. Pulock is our horse who plays the toughest minutes and Mayfield is kind of like a younger Boychuk where he is another primary PK'er and helps at ES against the middle lines. It also helps quite a bit that Pelech is such a good match for Pulock and Toews for Mayfield.

Leddy is clearly on the chopping block and Dobson's current skillset is most suited to replace him despite the handedness difference. While we all want to see Dobson on his natural RD side, it is a big feather under his cap to be able to play his off side. Leddy out and Dobson in is the most seamless change in this group.

For next season, I think Dobson is a lock to take Leddy's spot next to Boychuk. The kid has already demonstrated the ability to effectively carry the puck out of the zone or make the outlet pass. He does a nice job making smart offensive plays and has shown that he can get pucks to the net. He got #2PP time as well. It sucks he has to play LD again, but that's the open spot and he fits best there for now.

After next season, I think we lose Mayfield due to expansion (he could be solid trade bait too) and Dobson should be ready to go and move up into his #2RD spot.

I don't see Dobson ever seeing AHL time aside from conditioning stints.

 

[mm11]

I think it's more about role than specific roster spot. I think we saw glimpses of what Trotz wants out of Dobson, play a sheltered offensive role with PP time. It's going to take time for the defensive play to be more consistent, but his strengths have been more on the offensive side more similar to Leddy than to Boychuk.

We're stuck with Boychuk for next year unless the NHL surprises us with 2 CBO's. The old man is still a stalwart on the PK, but his ice time has decreased to 3rd pair levels now. Pulock is our horse who plays the toughest minutes and Mayfield is kind of like a younger Boychuk where he is another primary PK'er and helps at ES against the middle lines. It also helps quite a bit that Pelech is such a good match for Pulock and Toews for Mayfield.

Leddy is clearly on the chopping block and Dobson's current skillset is most suited to replace him despite the handedness difference. While we all want to see Dobson on his natural RD side, it is a big feather under his cap to be able to play his off side. Leddy out and Dobson in is the most seamless change in this group.

For next season, I think Dobson is a lock to take Leddy's spot next to Boychuk. The kid has already demonstrated the ability to effectively carry the puck out of the zone or make the outlet pass. He does a nice job making smart offensive plays and has shown that he can get pucks to the net. He got #2PP time as well. It sucks he has to play LD again, but that's the open spot and he fits best there for now.

After next season, I think we lose Mayfield due to expansion (he could be solid trade bait too) and Dobson should be ready to go and move up into his #2RD spot.

I don't see Dobson ever seeing AHL time aside from conditioning stints.

Who the heck am I to question Trotz but it baffles me to play Dobson on his off side when a wiley vet like Boychuk or whomever should instead? I noticed a way more confident Dobson playing the right side

 

[PWJunior]

Who the heck am I to question Trotz but it baffles me to play Dobson on his off side when a wiley vet like Boychuk or whomever should instead? I noticed a way more confident Dobson playing the right side

Ideally Dobson should be playing RD, but there are extenuating circumstances involved. As I noted in my other post, the role outweighs the handedness in this case. In the long run, I think it benefits Dobson and the entire group.

We're Internet keyboard warriors, we're playing Checkers and Trotz is playing 4D Chess...

 

[MJF]

Yeah that's the question that will have to be answered by Noah. If I were a GM I am going to bet on him. One of Boychuck or Leddy will have to be moved it looks. Noah is a right D, I would put him at #2D right behind Pulock. 1-2 punch for 6-7 years right there.

I think Leddy should be the one to go, if only because he will bring back some assets in return. Boychuk would he a straight salary dump. Besides, Leddy’s game is what’s closest to Dobson’s skillset.

 

[islesny88]

I think it's more about role than specific roster spot. I think we saw glimpses of what Trotz wants out of Dobson, play a sheltered offensive role with PP time. It's going to take time for the defensive play to be more consistent, but his strengths have been more on the offensive side more similar to Leddy than to Boychuk.

We're stuck with Boychuk for next year unless the NHL surprises us with 2 CBO's. The old man is still a stalwart on the PK, but his ice time has decreased to 3rd pair levels now. Pulock is our horse who plays the toughest minutes and Mayfield is kind of like a younger Boychuk where he is another primary PK'er and helps at ES against the middle lines. It also helps quite a bit that Pelech is such a good match for Pulock and Toews for Mayfield.

Leddy is clearly on the chopping block and Dobson's current skillset is most suited to replace him despite the handedness difference. While we all want to see Dobson on his natural RD side, it is a big feather under his cap to be able to play his off side. Leddy out and Dobson in is the most seamless change in this group.

For next season, I think Dobson is a lock to take Leddy's spot next to Boychuk. The kid has already demonstrated the ability to effectively carry the puck out of the zone or make the outlet pass. He does a nice job making smart offensive plays and has shown that he can get pucks to the net. He got #2PP time as well. It sucks he has to play LD again, but that's the open spot and he fits best there for now.

After next season, I think we lose Mayfield due to expansion (he could be solid trade bait too) and Dobson should be ready to go and move up into his #2RD spot.

I don't see Dobson ever seeing AHL time aside from conditioning stints.

I wouldn't be surprised if both Boychuck and Leddy were moved if deals can be made. I think Andy Greene can be brought back for minimal money and be paired with Dobson on the 3rd pairing. I liked what I've saw from Greene this year. And If Greene won't sign for low dollars, I think you can play Dobson with Toews and bring up Aho to play with Mayfield. Obviously in that case, Mayfield would get Dobson's minutes on PK and crunch time scenarios until Dobson proves himself capable.

 

[PWJunior]

I wouldn't be surprised if both Boychuck and Leddy were moved if deals can be made. I think Andy Greene can be brought back for minimal money and be paired with Dobson on the 3rd pairing. I liked what I've saw from Greene this year. And If Greene won't sign for low dollars, I think you can play Dobson with Toews and bring up Aho to play with Mayfield. Obviously in that case, Mayfield would get Dobson's minutes on PK and crunch time scenarios until Dobson proves himself capable.

I think it would be the ideal situation to be able to unload both Leddy and Boychuk, but I highly doubt that happens. I think Leddy is a goner, but I don't think Boychuk is movable until after next season when he'll only have one year left on his deal and the Seattle expansion.

If Lou can get it done though, a Greene-Dobson 3rd pairing would be best case scenario. I would leave the Pelech-Pulock and Toews-Mayfield pairs alone. Aho as the #7 and keep Hickey as big bro in Bridgeport if he can't be unloaded.

 

[islesny88]

I think it would be the ideal situation to be able to unload both Leddy and Boychuk, but I highly doubt that happens. I think Leddy is a goner, but I don't think Boychuk is movable until after next season when he'll only have one year left on his deal and the Seattle expansion.

If Lou can get it done though, a Greene-Dobson 3rd pairing would be best case scenario. I would leave the Pelech-Pulock and Toews-Mayfield pairs alone. Aho as the #7 and keep Hickey as big bro in Bridgeport if he can't be unloaded.

Yea, Lou is definitely going to have to earn it if he's going to unload Boychuk. We may have to pay something of value but our hand might be forced with our RFAs.

 

[TheWhiteWhale30]

In Trotz interview today he said he likes what he sees from Dobson, he did the right things this summer and is getting stronger. When asked who stood out he said Hickey had a really good day today. Sounds like Dobson has continued to improve and Hickey has Trotz eye. Pulock, Leddy, Pelech, Towes, Boychuk are all obviously in. Have to think barring any injuries the only spot that might be open is Mayfields. Greene, Hickey, Dobson and Mayfield will all be fighting for that last spot. Have to think Mayfield should come away with the last spot but ya never know. Would not be surprised if we see all of them play at some point to keep guys on their toes, plus we have 2 games in 2 days. May see Boychuk rested then. Competition is good and so is defensive depth. Love it. Chances are 2-3 of these guys won’t be here next year. Between Leddy (Possible trade) Hickey (Same) Greene (FA) Guys are going to be playing their asses off, guys are playing for jobs next year as well. This will be fun to see how it plays out.

 

[PWJunior]

Dobson Diligent During NHL Pause

Good to know that Seidenberg has been helping the kid train hard.



Holy shit, look at those stumps on Lee!

Dobson is still so tall and lanky, but it looks like he has packed on some more muscle. He doesn't look like a total string bean anymore.

 

[MJF]

Dobson Diligent During NHL Pause

Good to know that Seidenberg has been helping the kid train hard.

Thank you Mrs Siedenberg

 

[islesmb]

Dobson Diligent During NHL Pause

Good to know that Seidenberg has been helping the kid train hard.



Holy shit, look at those stumps on Lee!

Dobson is still so tall and lanky, but it looks like he has packed on some more muscle. He doesn't look like a total string bean anymore.

Sebonack? Sheesh they couldn't get on Shinnecock or National Golf Links, what is this amateur hour...

 

[PWJunior]

Sebonack? Sheesh they couldn't get on Shinnecock or National Golf Links, what is this amateur hour...

Those are big boy courses, he's not ready yet...

Seems like the boys have a connection to Sebonack. My fat fingers accidently went to their Instagram page and it looks like Martin got married there.

 

[scott99]

Trotz worked wonders with John Carlson, he's got two studs to work with in Pulock & Dobson. Pulock has put up similar numbers to Carlson during his first 3 full seasons. It wasn't until season 5 when Carlson topped 50+ points, and season 8 when he topped 60+ points, Pulock is on the same trajectory.

I wouldn't be surprised if Dobson scores more than Pulock in seasons 2 & 3, IF given the ice time. I think Dobson has more upside than Pulock.

 

[buud]

i am completely comfortable with Dobson in a regular role, next year. losing Boychuk will sting, but what you gonna do?

Pulock
Mayfield/Dobson
Hutton
Wilde

*Aho is left-handed but could probably slide in if needed.

 

[PWJunior]

i am completely comfortable with Dobson in a regular role, next year. losing Boychuk will sting, but what you gonna do?

Pulock
Mayfield/Dobson
Hutton
Wilde

*Aho is left-handed but could probably slide in if needed.

Pelech-Pulock
Toews-Mayfield
Greene-Dobson
Aho

PP - Toews, Pulock, Dobson
PK - Pelech, Mayfield, Greene, Pulock

That would be my ideal defense next season. That assumes we trade Leddy and can find a taker for Boychuk.

Wilde needs a full AHL season and Hutton is in Alert 5 position.

 

[CaptDenisPotvin]

Who the heck am I to question Trotz but it baffles me to play Dobson on his off side when a wiley vet like Boychuk or whomever should instead? I noticed a way more confident Dobson playing the right side

I agree wholeheartedly.....People don't realize how different it is to play on the left side if your used to the right and vice versa. Its not like NHL 20 where you just plug in the 6 best dman you got, quality of minutes can def. change based on the side they are on.

 

[PWJunior]

I agree wholeheartedly.....People don't realize how different it is to play on the left side if your used to the right and vice versa. Its not like NHL 20 where you just plug in the 6 best dman you got, quality of minutes can def. change based on the side they are on.

After watching Dobson last night against the Rangers, Lou needs to find a way to keep the kid at RD. Seems like his time during the pandemic shutdown was used wisely, he stayed on LI to train with Seidenberg and it shows. I'm sure Mrs. Seidenberg did her part in feeding him well too.

Boychuk may carry that ugly $6M cap hit, but he is owed only $1.25M next year and $4M total in his last season. He's still a valuable veteran player with loads of intangibles, but we need to clear the way for the Dobson train to get rolling. Re-sign Greene to be his veteran partner and unload Leddy for cap relief.

The skating, the outlet passes, the smarts are starting to shine now. If he gets a regular role next year, the offensive ability could start to emerge too.

 

[SI]

After watching Dobson last night against the Rangers, Lou needs to find a way to keep the kid at RD. Seems like his time during the pandemic shutdown was used wisely, he stayed on LI to train with Seidenberg and it shows. I'm sure Mrs. Seidenberg did her part in feeding him well too.

Boychuk may carry that ugly $6M cap hit, but he is owed only $1.25M next year and $4M total in his last season. He's still a valuable veteran player with loads of intangibles, but we need to clear the way for the Dobson train to get rolling. Re-sign Greene to be his veteran partner and unload Leddy for cap relief.

The skating, the outlet passes, the smarts are starting to shine now. If he gets a regular role next year, the offensive ability could start to emerge too.

100% - Leddy and Boychuk being traded this offseason with no $ coming back could lead the way in bringing in a top-line winger like Hoffman. Boychuk - Carrick deal (same exact $ and the Devils have cap space) and Leddy to Detroit or Montreal or LA or the Jets for picks

 

[Tahoeblue]

Has looked more comfortable defending and carrying the puck. When he first came up, he looked like he was holding a hand grenade. He needs to play on his natural side and some tough decisions need to be made on the blue line. It's great to have options as it shows organizational strength, which will be needed during this tournament.
You can tell he's got it between the ears and is coachable.

 

[GrandmaSlices51631]

100% - Leddy and Boychuk being traded this offseason with no $ coming back could lead the way in bringing in a top-line winger like Hoffman. Boychuk - Carrick deal (same exact $ and the Devils have cap space) and Leddy to Detroit or Montreal or LA or the Jets for picks

I think moving both is extreme. I could see one or the other, despite what many feel, when Boychuk is out of the lineup, historically, we've been bad.

Leddy is another story, since Toews has a similar skillset and Dobson is also more mobile. I would be concerned about injuries w/o Leddy and Boychuk in the fold. I guess we'd be looking at Hickey or Aho as a #6.

I'm all for getting Dobson the experience, but we know where Trotz stands and that's that the NHL is not a Development League. I feel Beauvillier has the skillset to be a top line Winger if only he'd get an extended look on Barzal's wing. He is right up there with Nelson as the best shot on the team and he has the wheels to keep up with Barzal.

 

[Odie Cleghorn]

I think moving both is extreme. I could see one or the other, despite what many feel, when Boychuk is out of the lineup, historically, we've been bad.

Leddy is another story, since Toews has a similar skillset and Dobson is also more mobile. I would be concerned about injuries w/o Leddy and Boychuk in the fold. I guess we'd be looking at Hickey or Aho as a #6.

I'm all for getting Dobson the experience, but we know where Trotz stands and that's that the NHL is not a Development League. I feel Beauvillier has the skillset to be a top line Winger if only he'd get an extended look on Barzal's wing. He is right up there with Nelson as the best shot on the team and he has the wheels to keep up with Barzal.

The NHL shouldn't be a Development League but Dobson' case is an exception. Can't be sent to the minors and too good for junior so Trotz should be doing his best to help him develop.

 

[PK Cronin]

I think moving both is extreme. I could see one or the other, despite what many feel, when Boychuk is out of the lineup, historically, we've been bad.

Leddy is another story, since Toews has a similar skillset and Dobson is also more mobile. I would be concerned about injuries w/o Leddy and Boychuk in the fold. I guess we'd be looking at Hickey or Aho as a #6.

I'm all for getting Dobson the experience, but we know where Trotz stands and that's that the NHL is not a Development League. I feel Beauvillier has the skillset to be a top line Winger if only he'd get an extended look on Barzal's wing. He is right up there with Nelson as the best shot on the team and he has the wheels to keep up with Barzal.

Historically we haven't had Dobson in the lineup when Boychuk has gone down. I think the idea would be to sign Greene if Leddy and Boychuk were both moved. Then grab another defenseman for cheap as the extra or something. I'd be shocked if it happened, but at some point both of those guys need to go and I really think Greene can provide some of what Boychuk does and do it better.

Pelech Pulock
Greene Dobson
Toews Mayfield

 

[SI]

I think moving both is extreme. I could see one or the other, despite what many feel, when Boychuk is out of the lineup, historically, we've been bad.

Leddy is another story, since Toews has a similar skillset and Dobson is also more mobile. I would be concerned about injuries w/o Leddy and Boychuk in the fold. I guess we'd be looking at Hickey or Aho as a #6.

I'm all for getting Dobson the experience, but we know where Trotz stands and that's that the NHL is not a Development League. I feel Beauvillier has the skillset to be a top line Winger if only he'd get an extended look on Barzal's wing. He is right up there with Nelson as the best shot on the team and he has the wheels to keep up with Barzal.

Greene would have to be extended before either of these two are moved...

Most likely, Dobson will play in the AHL if they resume in October to get further seasoning before training camp opens in November.

The above post by PK has it correct - I'd go with starting 6 - If Boychuk and/or Leddy could bring back a bottom pair d man for depth such as Connor Carrick type, then Carrick and Hickey could be buried with Aho playing as the 7th D... this saves them $ off the cap and adds further vet protection in the AHL with the likes of Hutton, Vande Sompel, and Wotherspoon pushing.

If you look closely at Boychuk's usage during the later part of this season - you can see that Trotz is limiting his ice-time.

 

[PWJunior]

Greene would have to be extended before either of these two are moved...

Most likely, Dobson will play in the AHL if they resume in October to get further seasoning before training camp opens in November.

The above post by PK has it correct - I'd go with starting 6 - If Boychuk and/or Leddy could bring back a bottom pair d man for depth such as Connor Carrick type, then Carrick and Hickey could be buried with Aho playing as the 7th D... this saves them $ off the cap and adds further vet protection in the AHL with the likes of Hutton, Vande Sompel, and Wotherspoon pushing.

If you look closely at Boychuk's usage during the later part of this season - you can see that Trotz is limiting his ice-time.

I don't think Dobson will ever play in the AHL aside from conditioning stints. The Dobson we saw last night is clearly not the overmatched teenager we saw earlier in the season.

Boychuk will not be easy to move, but I think unloading Leddy won't be too difficult. If Leddy goes and Boychuk stays then Dobson simply takes Leddy's vacated spot. Certainly not ideal for him to have to play LD again, but his skillset is closely matched to what Leddy brought.

If both Leddy and Boychuk can both be moved, then re-signing Greene is a no brainer and Dobson slots in at #3RD. Greene can replace Boychuk's PK duties and Dobson can take on Leddy's #2PP role. The versatility of the kid is a big positive factor, another reason why he is special.

EDIT: I just realized what you meant about playing in the AHL now. Sorry, I'm a dummy. Yes, would love for Dobson to get AHL games before the NHL club starts.