In the high-stakes world of NHL trades, every decision can alter the course of a franchise’s future. The recent blockbuster deal between the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders, centered around defenseman Noah Dobson, sent shockwaves through the hockey community and ignited a flurry of speculation among fans and analysts alike. As details of the negotiation process have surfaced, it’s become clear that Canadiens management drew a firm line in the sand regarding their most prized young assets.

Amidst swirling rumors and mounting pressure to make a splash, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton stood resolute, refusing to entertain any offers that included promising talents like David Reinbacher or Michael Hage. This unwavering stance speaks volumes about the organization’s long-term vision and confidence in their core prospects.

With the dust now settling, new insights from respected insiders offer a fascinating look at how the Canadiens navigated one of the most talked-about trades of the offseason—while making it clear that some players are simply untouchable.

Photo of Canadiens and Islanders logos

Photo credit: NHL

We mentioned it recently, but the excellent Marco D’Amico gave a strong interview on the Poolcast podcast with Marco Normandin and Pascal Cameron.

He touched on numerous topics, including the major trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders, which, of course, involved Noah Dobson.

Following the announcement of the trade, many of us were eager to see if a young player like David Reinbacher or Michael Hage would be involved-before knowing the full return.

In the end, Dobson cost Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton the 16th and 17th overall picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, plus young forward Emil Heineman.

And on that note, Marco D’Amico revealed this:

There was never any chance that Michael Hage or David Reinbacher would be involved in the Noah Dobson trade with the New York Islanders

That’s interesting-and still very relevant today-because it shows just how highly the Habs’ management thinks of Hage and Reinbacher.

Forget it. They won’t be traded.

While talking about the possible Canadiens trade for Jordan Kyrou, he said this..

“I would add that, if the trade happens-if it materializes (for Jordan Kyrou and the Montreal Canadiens), those two would not be part of the package.”

– Marco D’Amico, regarding David Reinbacher and Michael Hage.

The very well-connected insider then added that it was the same story in the Noah Dobson trade.

Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton did the same thing with Dobson-they wanted nothing to do with including Michael Hage or David Reinbacher in the deal.

Interesting!

So clearly, right from the start of discussions, Kent Hughes pulled those two names out of the trade.

They were never on the table. I love it!