While operating on his recreation, Dobson additionally serves as inspiration to younger defensemen in coaching camp. Calle Odelius, 19, entered his first Islanders camp this season after enjoying skilled hockey in Sweden. With the chance to skate in the similar crew as Dobson for almost all of coaching camp, Odelius is soaking up up to he can from staring at Dobson in observe and paying attention to his recommendation.
“He’s been in the league for a few years now and knows what he’s doing,” Odeluis mentioned. “I’m just trying to learn as much as I can from him and just watch him on the ice. He always chats with me and gives me pointers both on and off the ice. He tells me to keep it simple. To not stick handle the puck too much, make a good first pass and get the puck to the net.”
Perhaps similarly as essential as on-ice mentoring is forming a connection out of doors of the rink. Dobson’s pleasant demeanor helps the following technology really feel extra at house within the Islanders group.
“He’s a really good guy,” Odelius mentioned of Dobson. “He’s really kind to me and always chats with me. He’s a new friend of mine.”
“It’s really important to have that team camaraderie,” Dobson mentioned. “I think we have a great group here. A lot of guys been together for a while, but I think just each year just building that bond with new teammates is important too. That’s what brings you together in tough times too, when you have a tight knit group and I think we have that here.”