Some NHL rumors and speculation discussed whether an unsigned Rantanen and D-man Dobson could be traded. Are those possibilities realistic?

The Islanders must trade Noah Dobson at the deadline amid a defensive overhaul that could lead to a massive deal.

The Canadiens are in rumors about trading rental players, but that doesn’t mean Kent Hughes simply wants to acquire distant picks for his players. That time is over. In fact, everyone agrees that the Habs have a “hybrid” approach to keep the door open for adding a top-tier young talent to the organization.

According to RG, the Islanders are shopping Dobson: Dobson is currently on long-term injured reserve after sustaining a lower-body injury on Jan. 4. Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello said he could return to the ice during the latter part of the upcoming two-week break, but there is no timetable for when he will be game-ready.

The New York Islanders are currently amid a surge back into the playoff race. During this surge, Noah Dobson suffered a major injury and won’t return until after the Four Nation Face-Off.

The New York Islanders are in a weird spot. They’re still relatively close to a postseason spot, just four points out with a 7-3-0 record in their last 10 games.