The Montreal Canadiens have had one of the best starts to their season in recent years. In the 2025-26 season, they hold an impressive 9-3-2 record and are near the top of the Atlantic Division, having won nine out of their first 12 games.
A big reason for this strong start is defenseman Noah Dobson. Acquired from the New York Islanders on June 27, Dobson signed an eight-year, $76 million contract worth $9.5 million per season. The 25-year-old has made an immediate impact, recording one goal and nine assists in 14 games, along with a +5 rating. His puck movement and defensive consistency have quickly made him a key part of Montreal’s blue line.
However, Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes might not be done making moves this season. Speaking on Daily Faceoff Live on Friday, NHL insider David Pagnotta suggested Hughes could be preparing for another major trade.
“I think they’re going to be a team that’s going to be looking, they’re going to be lurking, and they’re going to be making sure, like they usually do,” Pagnotta said. “And Kent Hughes is great at this. He wants to know what’s out there. He wants to know who’s available. And if they make another big splash, and they made a big one in the summer, they picked up Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders, or something along those lines—it would not shock me.”
Montreal has the flexibility to make such a move. The team holds valuable draft picks and several promising young players, giving Hughes plenty of options if the right opportunity arises.
“You know, for this group, they’ve got a lot, a lot of good young assets, plus still a pretty solid cupboard with respect to draft picks,” Pagnotta added.
With a deep prospect pool and growing cap space, the Canadiens could be in a strong position to add another impact player before the trade deadline in March.
### Montreal Canadiens’ Resurgence as a Contender in 2025
After returning to the playoffs last year for the first time since 2021, the Montreal Canadiens look more balanced and confident this season. Captain Nick Suzuki leads the offense with 19 points, while Cole Caufield remains one of Montreal’s top scorers with 10 goals.
Montreal’s power play has improved significantly, and its defense has been solid early on. As the season progresses, the Canadiens appear ready to take another step forward. Whether Hughes makes another blockbuster move or not, Montreal is clearly showing signs of becoming a consistent contender in the Eastern Conference.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/rumor-nhl-rumors-canadiens-gm-kent-hughes-hunt-another-blockbuster-trade-noah-dobson-deal
