Islanders Face Crucial Decision as Dobson’s Future Hangs in the Balance
Right now, all eyes are on the New York Islanders and what they’re going to do about Noah Dobson. This isn’t just another offseason contract negotiation — this is a franchise-altering moment. Dobson, the 25-year-old standout defenceman, is nearing restricted free agency on July 1, and what happens next could reshape the Islanders' core for years to come.
Dobson has been an anchor on the blueline, coming off a solid season with 10 goals and 29 assists over 71 games. He’s just wrapped up a three-year, $12 million contract, and now the word is he’s asking for a major raise — as much as $11 million per year depending on the term. That’s a big leap, and it’s forcing the Islanders’ front office, led by GM Mathieu Darche, to weigh every possible outcome.
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The preference from both sides is clearly to work out a deal. Dobson has grown into his role and become a pillar for the Islanders’ defense. But the NHL is a business — and one that runs on a hard salary cap. Even with about $21 million in cap space heading into 2025-26, Darche knows he needs flexibility not just for Dobson, but to round out the roster.
That’s why trade talks are happening in parallel. Several teams have already reached out to express interest in Dobson, including the Utah Mammoth, Columbus Blue Jackets, San Jose Sharks, and the St. Louis Blues — who have reportedly "poked around" more than once. If negotiations hit a wall, the Islanders might be forced to explore a trade package they can’t refuse.
On top of all that, Darche is also exploring a potential move involving veteran center Jean-Gabriel Pageau. With one year left on his $5 million contract and a 16-team no-trade list, any deal would require careful navigation. Pageau, who notched 42 points this past season, still has plenty of value — but moving his cap hit could free up the space the team needs to give Dobson the contract he wants.
So here we are — a tense, high-stakes offseason where the fate of one of the NHL’s most promising young defensemen hangs in the balance. Will the Islanders lock up their future on defense, or will Dobson find himself donning a new jersey come fall? Either way, the next few days will be crucial in shaping not just his career, but the Islanders’ identity moving forward.
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