NHL Rumors: Islanders' Noah Dobson Could Be Traded This Week & One Team Is Circling

Noah Dobson’s name has rocketed to the center of NHL trade buzz, and according to multiple insiders, including Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli and Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the New York Islanders are “quietly testing the market” on their 25-year-old defenseman. 

That’s a major development heading into the NHL Draft, especially with Detroit reportedly circling. Dobson, a former 70-point blueliner, is up for a new contract as a restricted free agent, with his ask rumored to be north of $10 million annually. 

While the Isles aren’t openly shopping him, they’re exploring options, and the Red Wings are very much in the mix.

Daily Faceoff's @MLarkinHockey says if Noah Dobson is traded, his money is on Detroit. Makes a lot of sense given the Wings' free cap space and assets to get it done. #LGRW #RedWings https://t.co/sWs74T0BKN

— The Grind Line Podcast™ (@GrindLinePod) June 24, 2025

Detroit Has the Assets—and the Motivation

Detroit’s interest in Dobson makes sense. The Wings have missed the playoffs nine straight years, and GM Steve Yzerman is feeling the pressure to make a splash. Dobson would be an ideal partner for Moritz Seider and help solidify a top-four that’s lacking high-end puck movement. 

Also surprised no one is talking about Noah Dobson. Offer-sheet for players like Peterka, Knies, McTavish, Rossi... But no one is mentioning Noah Dobson who is a 1st pairing defenseman. Still only 25 years old who already had seasons at 1D level. https://t.co/c9iNGlSIOh pic.twitter.com/nzO754UXcM

— Rono (@RonoAnalyst) June 18, 2025

Detroit has the cap space and a deep pool of prospects and picks, with names like Jonatan Berggren, Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Sebastian Cossa, and Nate Danielson all rumored in possible packages. While one reported proposal involving J.T. Compher and Berggren was shot down, the broader picture remains: Detroit wants Dobson, and they can pay up. 

Islanders Face Big Draft Night Decisions

For the Islanders and new GM Mathieu Darche, this could be a franchise-altering week. Holding the No. 1 pick and potentially landing another top-15 selection if they move Dobson, the Isles could reset quickly. But they’re not giving Dobson away for futures alone. 

Reports say they’re looking for immediate help, ideally, a top-six forward or NHL-ready asset on a manageable deal. If Detroit steps up with the right mix of picks and players, Dobson could be wearing the Winged Wheel by Friday. And if not? Don’t be surprised if another team, like Buffalo or Philadelphia, jumps in.

Photo Credit: Tom Horak-Imagn Images