It seems New York Islanders star defenseman Noah Dobson might be available for trade. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports that the 25-year-old, who is a restricted free agent this summer, is being “quietly shopped” by new general manager Mathieu Darche.
Earlier, NHL insider Frank Seravalli noted that Dobson’s representatives are seeking a contract worth $11 million annually. This demand comes despite Dobson’s dip in performance, recording only 39 points and a minus-16 rating last season. This contrasts sharply with his 2023-24 performance, where he was the first Islanders defenseman since Denis Potvin in 1983-84 to score 70 or more points in a season (10 goals, 60 assists).
The potential trade is intriguing, especially with the 2025 NHL Draft approaching. The Islanders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are expected to select promising 17-year-old defenseman Matthew Schaefer. Rumors suggest Darche aims to trade back into the top 10 to draft James Hagens, a Boston College forward from Long Island. Including Dobson in a trade package could achieve this, but it’s a gamble considering Dobson’s proven abilities and the uncertainties around extending his contract.
Trading Dobson might serve another purpose for Darche: demonstrating to Dobson’s camp the impracticality of the $11 million annual salary demand. By revealing trade negotiations, Darche can show that other teams might not meet this price, strengthening his position in contract talks.
The coming week is crucial for determining Dobson’s future with the Islanders. A qualifying offer must be submitted by June 30 if no extension is agreed upon. If Dobson signs, it would be a temporary solution until next summer. If rejected, other teams can submit offer sheets, which the Islanders can choose to match or let Dobson walk. An $11 million annual offer sheet seems unlikely, but without any offers, Dobson has until December 1 to negotiate a deal, giving Darche ample time to reach a resolution.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
