Detroit Red Wings
Are Red Wings Making Pitch For Islanders Dobson?
Compher, Berggren rumored to be part of pitch
There was a time when the Detroit Red Wings could’ve grabbed defenseman Noah Dobson for merely the cost of their first-round pick. At the 2018 NHL entry draft, Dobson was still on the board when Detroit was opting to select winger Filip Zadina with the sixth overall pick.
Seven years later, a trusted NHL source is suggesting that the Red Wings are looking into the possbilility of acquiring Dobson from the New York Islanders. According to published reports, the Wings are showing interest in Dobson.
Russian website Sport Express is reporting that a pair of Detroit forwards, JT Compher and Jonathan Berggren, are part of the package being offered to the Isles. Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman may also be willing to part with draft picks to make this deal happen.
Though he didn’t specifically mention Deroit, Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman was discussing the Dobson situation during Sportsnet’s 32 Thoughts Podcast.
“I have heard quietly that the Islanders are testing the market on him,” Friedman said. “I’ve had a few people tell me that Dobson is the guy really to keep an eye on.”
“I think the #Isles are investigating all possibilities. I think they know he’s going to be an eight-figure guy. So, they have to decide, are we going to pay that or is another team going to pay that?”
– Friedman on Noah Dobson (32TP)
— Rob Taub (@RTaub_) June 20, 2025
Expected to select rearguard Michael Schaefer of the OHL Erie Otters with the first overall pick of the 2025 NHL entry draft, the Islanders are looking to move a veteran defenseman. They are listening to offers for both Dobson and Alexander Romanov.
Would Red Wings Be Willing To Pay Dobson?
Dobson is going to be a restricted free agent on July 1. He’s one year away from unrestricted free agency. According to published reports, Dobson will be seeking a multi-year pact with an AAV in the $11 million range.
“I think they know he’s going to be an eight-figure guy,” Friedman said. “So, the Islanders have to decide, are we going to pay that, or is someone else going to pay that?”
A right-shot defenseman, Dobson, 25, was good for 10 goals and 39 points last season. In 2023-24, he was also scoring 10 goals, along with a career-high 70 points.
