By Eric Engels
MONTREAL – The Montreal Canadiens` acquisition of defenseman Noah Dobson is significant for reasons beyond simply adding a highly-paid player to the roster. It fundamentally represents the opening of new possibilities for the team.
At the heart of this major transaction is Dobson himself. The 25-year-old, 6`4″ right-shot blueliner is entering the prime of his career. His reported choice to sign an eight-year, $76-million contract in Montreal and his apparent push to leave Long Island signal a deep belief in the Canadiens` potential to compete for championships in the coming years. This personal commitment from a player of his caliber is a cornerstone of the deal`s importance.
Neville Woodall 
Duncan Priestley