Dobson is slated to start the season being paired with Zdeno Chara, Arthur Staple of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Last season the Islanders had Dobson paired with Andy Greene. This season Greene looks to start with Scott Mayfield leaving Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock as the final pairing. The Islanders are a team that plays from the goaltender on out. Coach Barry Trotz and his defensive system may be the number one reason the Islanders have become as good a team as they are. Dobson has the most offensive skill of the defensemen, but Trotz still insists on having him paired with a defensive first defenseman. That defender will be Chara to start the season.