Islanders Trade Dobson to Canadiens for Picks, Heineman

The New York Islanders traded defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens after failing to reach agreement on a contract extension, with Dobson signing an eight-year, $9.5 million annual deal with Montreal. In return, the Islanders received forward Emil Heineman and two first-round picks (16th and 17th overall), which they used to select Victor Eklund and Kashawn Aitcheson. The Islanders may also leverage their draft assets in pursuit of top prospect James Hagens. With Dobson joining Lane Hutson, the Canadiens strengthen their young defensive core as they aim to become contenders. Meanwhile, Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson remains the subject of trade speculation, particularly involving the Toronto Maple Leafs, but no deal has been finalized as Flames GM Craig Conroy evaluates options. Andersson is entering the final year of his contract and appears unlikely to sign an extension with Calgary.