Noah Dobson is making a significant impact on the Montreal Canadiens' defense, reminiscent of how Nick Suzuki influences the center position. This was evident during the Canadiens' recent 6-2 victory over the Utah Mammoth at the Bell Centre. Both players exhibit a high level of intelligence on the ice, demonstrating the ability to read plays and react effectively.

Mike Matheson, Dobson's defensive partner, praised him after practice, stating, "He’s very good positionally. I think that’s definitely a fair comparison. I’ve said it before, he just always seems in control and that’s really impressive."

This summer, Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes made a bold move to acquire Dobson from the New York Islanders. In exchange, he sent 23-year-old forward Emil Heineman and two first-round draft picks (16th and 17th overall) to the Islanders. Hughes noted that he had accumulated draft picks during the team's rebuilding phase to secure a player of Dobson's caliber, who is in the prime of his career. Right-shot defensemen like Dobson are rare, prompting Hughes to finalize the trade.

The trade could benefit both teams. Heineman has performed well with the Islanders, recording 6 goals and 4 assists in 16 games while playing alongside Bo Horvat and Kyle Palmieri. The Islanders used the first-round picks to select right-winger Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, both of whom are showing promise in their respective leagues.

Dobson, standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 200 pounds, has seamlessly integrated into the Canadiens' lineup. Hughes described Dobson's defensive style as relying on his skating ability and reach rather than physicality. "His ability to retrieve pucks and kind of spring the offense for us was a big piece," Hughes said.

Under head coach Martin St. Louis, the Canadiens have adopted a fast-paced style that emphasizes aggressive forechecking and mobile defensemen. This system has made it challenging for opponents to enter the offensive zone. Dobson's mobility is a significant upgrade from David Savard, who retired after last season. Savard played a crucial role in mentoring the Canadiens' younger defensemen.

As St. Louis noted, some players contribute to the team's growth but may not be around to see the results. Savard is a prime example, along with former goalie Jake Allen, who also served as a mentor. The Canadiens currently have seven mobile defensemen capable of executing St. Louis's system, including Dobson, Matheson, and others.

Cole Caufield highlighted the importance of the defense in the team's success, as they lead the Atlantic Division with a 10-3-2 record. "I think we’re spending a lot less time in the D-zone and that definitely helps," Caufield said. "Definitely a full 180 from last year and we’re just going to try and keep that going."

Dobson and Matheson have developed a strong on-ice chemistry. Matheson is enjoying one of the best stretches of his 11-year NHL career, with 3 goals and 6 assists in 15 games, averaging over 25 minutes of ice time. Dobson has also been effective, contributing 1 goal and 10 assists while averaging 22 minutes of ice time.

Matheson remains focused on his performance, stating, "I’m not really thinking about that, to be honest. I’m just looking at each game, who I’m going against, and just focusing on those matchups."

Both players share similar personalities, characterized by thoughtfulness and intelligence. Matheson expressed his appreciation for playing alongside Dobson, saying, "I think he’s such a special player and so easy to play with. We’re definitely getting along well off the ice and carrying that on to communicating really well on the ice, on the bench, and really learning how each other likes to play. So it’s helped a lot."