Why Noah Dobson turned down Columbus Blue Jackets’ bigger offer for Montreal Canadiens’ $76 million deal

What would make a rising NHL star turn down the highest offer on the table? On June 27, defenseman Noah Dobson became the talk of the offseason when he chose to sign with the Montreal Canadiens over the Columbus Blue Jackets—even though Columbus offered more overall money.His decision wasn’t about the biggest paycheck but the finer details: signing bonuses, contract security, and the chance to play in hockey’s most passionate market. Dobson’s choice shines a spotlight on the strategy behind modern NHL contracts and the factors players weigh when their future—and millions—are on the line.

What made Montreal Canadiens’ offer irresistible to Noah Dobson despite Columbus Blue Jackets’ bigger budget

When Elliotte Friedman discussed the race for Noah Dobson on the 32 Thoughts podcast on Sunday, he revealed the Blue Jackets’ aggressive approach.Columbus Blue Jackets, valued at $1 billion (according to Forbes), made a serious bid to land the 24-year-old defenseman.“Don’t think it was for lack of trying. They made a big run at Dobson,” Friedman said during the show,He added, “I think they offered, but I don’t know about the structure of the contract, because Dobson got structure from Montreal in terms of bonuses, but I do believe in overall money, Columbus offered more money.”

Why the Montreal Canadiens’ bonus-heavy deal proved too good to pass up

Noah Dobson’s eight-year, $76 million deal with the Canadiens wasn’t just about the cap hit—though it’s significant at $9.5 million annually.

The real selling point was the structure. Montreal’s contract included a massive $38 million signing bonus. For next season alone, Dobson will earn only $1 million in base salary but will collect an $8.5 million bonus—giving him guaranteed money up front and a level of financial security Columbus couldn’t match.Beyond the dollars and cents, the Canadiens sold him on their history, culture, and fan base.“Without hesitation, it was a no-brainer for me,” Dobson told NHL.com after the deal was signed.

“Just the opportunity to be part of the Montreal Canadiens, it’s an honour. It’s the best hockey market in the world. The fans are incredible. I love playing at the Bell Centre.”

What the Montreal Canadiens gave up to land Noah Dobson

The Montreal Canadiens’ commitment didn’t stop at the contract. The June 27 trade that brought Dobson from the New York Islanders cost the Canadiens two first-round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft and forward Emil Heineman—highlighting how highly the team values their new defenseman.Dobson, selected 12th overall by the Islanders in the 2018 NHL Draft, has logged 388 regular-season games, producing 230 points (50 goals, 180 assists). His playoff résumé includes 10 assists in 31 games.Last season, he delivered a breakout performance with 29 assists and 39 points in 71 games, making him one of the hottest defensive targets on the market.In the end, Dobson’s decision proves that in today’s NHL, where, when, and how a deal is structured can matter more than simply what it’s worth. Columbus may have offered more money, but Montreal offered the complete package—and that made all the difference.Also Read: Florida Panthers shock NHL: Aaron Ekblad, Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett sign blockbuster long-term deals before free agency