New York Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson. Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

Is Noah Dobson a realistic trade target for Maple Leafs?

Originally posted on Hockey Patrol | By Austin Kelly | Last updated Feb 11, 2025 2:15 PM ET

Is defenseman Noah Dobson a realistic target for the Toronto Maple Leafs as the NHL trade deadline approaches?

The Maple Leafs are one team that may be setting eyes on the New York Islanders defenseman, with the 25-year-old set to be a free agent at the end of this season and with a recent report linking Dobson as a trade target.

But new reporting from Friedman indicates that a Dobson trade may be a difficult task.

Friedman reports on '32 Thoughts: The Podcast' that while Noah Dobson's name has come up in trade rumors, it's his understanding that a move for Dobson won't happen with just any team.

After a breakthrough year in the Big Apple last season with 10 goals and 70 points in 79 games for the Islanders, Dobson is looking to be one of the league's top right-handed defenders.

This season has been a bit quieter offensively, with just six goals and 24 points in 46 games with New York, but the 6'4 Dobson would likely earn the Islanders a major return.

Can the Maple Leafs acquire Noah Dobson?

Just what sort of deal the Islanders are looking for is an unknown. But for a young RHD with size and year removed from 70 points the Islanders will surely still be demanding a massive return.

Even if he isn't on the same 70-point pace as last season, Dobson is still one of the league's top young defensive defensemen, and his size and strength are valuable to any team.

Rumors have consistently focused on a forward add for Toronto, with popular names including Brayden Schenn from St. Louis and Scott Laughton from Philadelphia.

Schenn and Laughton are expected to cost a anywhere from a modest to mammoth price, making it likely the Maple Leafs will have to decide between adding a forward or a defenseman.

Without a first-rounder in 2025 and a lack of elite prospects, Toronto may not have enough for Dobson, particularly if it wants to add an impact forward.

For Dobson, the price may be out of Toronto's reach.

This article first appeared on Hockey Patrol and was syndicated with permission.

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