Montreal Canadiens defenseman Noah Dobson had been out since April 11th with an upper-body injury after blocking a shot against the Columbus Blue Jackets. With a pivotal return in Game 7 vs the Tampa Bay Lightning, this game-time decision was a stabilizing factor that helped the Habs pull away with a win.
His return was highly anticipated, as he previously averaged the third-highest ice time (22:29) on the team, along with his 6'4", 200lb stature being greatly appreciated in rough playoff hockey. Alongside big minutes, Dobson also collected a hefty 47 points (12 goals and 35 assists) in 80 games and a +5.
Game 7 was a hard watch for Montreal fans, as they were heavily outshot 29-9 and went the entire 2nd period without a shot on goal. Despite this, Montreal pulled away with a 2-1 win, with the defensive structure and an insane performance from Dobeš holding under intense pressure.
Even without headline stats, Dobson put in the minutes and blocked shots, with his pressure adding necessary composure. Alongside his puck-moving abilities on the back end, his subtle influence undoubtedly helped his team survive a game where they barely had any shots.
His return was a necessity, improving puck exits under pressure, and adding his experience to a high-leverage, stressful Game 7 situation. In a one-goal difference, elimination game, the difference this makes is massive, regardless of what the scoresheet shows.
Noah Dobson could have a major impact on the upcoming series with the Buffalo Sabres
The Canadiens now face up against the Buffalo Sabres, the Atlantic Division standings leader. Dobson's return can be a huge swing factor, assisting with cleaner breakouts, reduced defensive zone times, and more viable transitions to offense.
Even though the Canadiens won Game 7, there was a huge territorial domination difference, and it cannot be repeated if they want to find future success. Noah Dobson plays a huge role in this, allowing for a reliable defensive pair to handle the Sabres roster, alongside better penalty killing and reading, allowing coach Martin St. Louis to deploy his lineup more aggressively.
If Game 7 was any indication, Noah Dobson's steady presence and his willingness to sacrifice his body with timely shot blocking could be the difference-maker the Canadiens need to contend and succeed in the next round.
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