Canadiens D Noah Dobson game-time decision for Game 7

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Noah Dobson is considered a game-time decision for Game 7 of the team's Eastern Conference first-round series versus the host Tampa Bay Lightning.

Dobson has been sidelined with an upper-body injury after blocking a shot against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 11.

"He's been a big player for us this year," Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis said. "I'm confident that if he plays, he's going to bring something."

Dobson, 26, recorded 47 points (12 goals, 35 assists) and averaged 22:29 of ice time in 80 games during the regular season.

The Canadiens acquired Dobson in a sign-and-trade agreement with the New York Islanders on June 27, 2025, as he agreed to an eight-year, $76 million contract.

In return, the Islanders received forward Emil Heineman and both of Montreal's first-round picks (Nos. 16 and 17) in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Islanders used those selections on Swedish right winger Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson of Barrie (OHL).

Dobson has totaled 277 points (62 goals, 215 assists) in 348 career games since being selected by the Islanders with the 12th overall pick of the 2018 NHL Draft.