Islanders Trade Noah Dobson to Canadiens for Two First-Round Picks

The 2025 NHL Entry Draft featured several notable trades primarily involving draft picks, highlighted by the New York Islanders trading defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens. In exchange, the Islanders received two first-round picks (16th and 17th overall) and forward Emil Heineman, while the Canadiens signed Dobson to an eight-year, $76 million extension, addressing their need for a top-pairing defender. The Islanders now hold three picks in the top 17, including the No. 1 overall pick, positioning them to potentially trade up in the draft. Other trades included the Philadelphia Flyers moving up to the 12th pick from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for two later picks, and the Carolina Hurricanes, Chicago Blackhawks, Ottawa Senators, and Nashville Predators also exchanging mid-round selections. Canadian players dominated the first round with 20 selections, reflecting a strong comeback compared to only six Americans, and the Canadian Hockey League produced 21 picks, nearly matching the record. The Islanders are expected to continue retooling their roster, with speculation about trading center JG Pageau to focus on building around core players Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal.