Why Noah Dobson's estimated deal shouldn't be concerning to New York Islanders fans
Noah Dobson (via Getty Images)
New York Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson is on the cusp of a crucial off-season, with free agency on the horizon and rumors circulating about his future deal. The 25-year-old blueliner, who played key minutes and gave it his all in all aspects of the game, has emerged as a focal point for criticism among fans and pundits.
Noah Dobson's versatility makes him more than an offender-scoring defenseman for the New York Islanders
Noah Dobson's name will be at the top of the New York Islanders' offseason agenda, and for good reason. The defenseman is entering a year in which his offense declined—39 points versus a career-high 70 the previous season—but looking only at that decline is telling only half the story.
Noah Dobson kept dealing with a heavy load, averaging more than 23 minutes per night, frequently against the opposing top line. Compared to other blueliners like Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard, even with 15 more points last season, Bouchard also sported defensive issues and a high xG% (57.9%) but his estimated contract only slightly exceeds that of Noah Dobson's.
Both skaters were snubbed from Team Canada's roster for the 4 Nations, a reminder that national acclaim is not always the best measuring stick for NHL value.
The concern that Dobson will be "overpaid" is rooted in old-fashioned ideals of what a premier-pairing defenseman ought to resemble. Not every great defender carries the game on highlight-reel goals or great big hits. Dobson thrives by being understated, using positioning, and playing in transition.
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Although 13 of his points came on secondary assists last year, that tidbit doesn't take away from the fact that he initiated the play in the first place. Defensemen also tend to peak later than forwards, and Dobson still has plenty of room for improvement on the offensive and defensive sides.
Also read:
New York Islanders limit GM search to Marc Bergevin, Mathieu Darche amid Brendan Shanahan negotiations
With contract estimates floating around $10 million a year for eight years, there's natural reluctance. But Noah Dobson's steady presence, steady growth, and analytical prowess make him a risk worth taking. The New York Islanders require stability and a ceiling on their blue line—and Dobson provides both. Rather than fearing they're overpaying, fans can see this contract as a long-term wager on a player who's quietly become the team's most valuable piece.
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