K’Andre Miller Projected to Outshine Noah Dobson: Analysts Favor Carolina’s Defensive Edge Over Montreal’s Blue Line Bet…see more…
In a summer full of trade speculation, free agency rumors, and roster rebuilds, two names have emerged in contrasting narratives—K’Andre Miller, now with the Carolina Hurricanes, and Noah Dobson, reportedly heading toward a new chapter with the Montreal Canadiens. While both young defensemen carry high potential, early projections and analytical models suggest Miller may not only adapt faster in Carolina but ultimately outperform Dobson in Montreal.
But why is this comparison gaining traction? The answer lies in team context, defensive systems, playing partners, and the evolving roles both players are expected to assume with their new squads.
—
K’Andre Miller: Poised for Breakout in Carolina
The 24-year-old former New York Ranger arrives in Raleigh with a strong mix of size, skating, and defensive upside. Listed at 6-foot-5 and over 210 pounds, Miller brings a rare combination of reach and mobility that fits seamlessly into Rod Brind’Amour’s fast-paced, possession-heavy system.
Over the past two seasons, Miller quietly developed into a top-four option with flashes of top-pairing potential. He was often overshadowed by star names like Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba in New York, but in Carolina, he may finally get the spotlight.
Analyst Craig Button of TSN recently described Miller as “one of the most underappreciated two-way defensemen under 25 in the NHL.” The Hurricanes clearly value him not only as a shutdown option but as a transitional defenseman capable of driving offense from the back end.
With Jaccob Slavin likely to mentor or partner him, Miller’s confidence and numbers could surge. The Hurricanes’ elite defensive structure—ranked No. 1 in shot suppression last season—should give Miller a system advantage Dobson may not enjoy in Montreal.
—
Noah Dobson: Talent in Flux on a Rebuilding Team
On the other end of the spectrum, Noah Dobson’s arrival in Montreal has been met with both excitement and caution. There’s no denying the 24-year-old defenseman’s offensive chops. With a career-high 51 assists and 60 points last season with the New York Islanders, Dobson was a key driver of power-play production and puck movement.
However, scouts remain concerned about his play without the puck. His defensive zone metrics, particularly against rush chances and slot entries, were among the worst for top-four D-men last season. While Dobson’s offensive toolkit is well-developed, his defensive lapses and high-risk style raise questions about how he’ll adjust to Martin St. Louis’ evolving but inconsistent defensive system in Montreal.
There’s also the issue of fit. Montreal is flush with young, developing defensemen—Kaiden Guhle, David Reinbacher, and Jordan Harris, to name a few. It’s unclear whether Dobson will immediately be leaned on as a number-one option or integrated more gradually. Either way, the lack of structure and support could hinder his short-term impact.
—
Analytics Support Miller’s Edge
Statistical modeling offers a clearer picture of the gap between the two blueliners—at least for now.
According to Evolving-Hockey’s WAR (Wins Above Replacement) model, Miller posted a 2.4 WAR last season compared to Dobson’s 1.8, with much of the difference stemming from defensive value. Miller was a net-positive in suppressing shots, zone exits, and transition control, while Dobson excelled almost exclusively in offensive creation.
Moreover, Carolina’s system amplifies defensive responsibility and puck movement, two of Miller’s biggest strengths. Montreal, still very much in rebuilding mode, doesn’t offer the same foundational support.
—
The Intangibles: Leadership and Ceiling
Beyond numbers, Carolina is betting on Miller’s ceiling. With an NHL playoff pedigree and a quiet confidence forged in the bright lights of Madison Square Garden, Miller arrives with a level of poise and maturity that’s hard to find in 24-year-old defensemen.
His locker room presence, off-ice discipline, and adaptability make him an ideal fit for a team with championship aspirations.
Dobson, meanwhile, faces the challenge of becoming a stabilizing figure on a young, unproven blue line. The pressure in Montreal is unique—media scrutiny, high expectations, and a fan base desperate for progress. Whether he flourishes or flounders may depend as much on his mental fortitude as his physical tools.
—
Final Verdict: Miller the Safer Bet
While both defensemen carry exciting upside, K’Andre Miller appears to be the more complete, NHL-ready player heading into 2025. His move to a contending Carolina Hurricanes squad gives him the perfect environment to thrive, surrounded by elite defensive minds, smart pairings, and postseason ambition.
Dobson’s Montreal chapter remains a story waiting to be written—full of promise but clouded by uncertainty.
If early indicators are any sign, the narrative for now is clear: Miller will be better in Carolina than Dobson will be in Montreal. And as the season unfolds, hockey fans and front offices alike will be watching closely to see if that prediction holds.
Leave a Reply