The race for the Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL's top defenseman, is heating up with three outstanding finalists announced: Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators, and Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche. Each player has had a phenomenal season, showcasing their immense talent and contributions to their respective teams.
Quinn Hughes: A Season of Milestones
Quinn Hughes has had a season to remember, racking up an impressive 92 points. His offensive prowess was particularly evident on the power play, where he led all NHL defensemen in assists and ranked second in power-play points. Over the past three seasons, Hughes has recorded 200 assists, a testament to his passing skill and vision on the ice.
In addition to his on-ice achievements, Hughes has marked several significant milestones. He is the first player from the Vancouver Canucks to ever be a finalist for the Norris Trophy, an acknowledgment of his impact on the team and the league. Furthermore, Hughes could join the elite ranks of American players who have won the Norris Trophy, a feat achieved by only three others.
Roman Josi: Breaking Records and Setting Standards
Roman Josi, with 85 points this season, continues to demonstrate why he is one of the premier defensemen in the NHL. Josi's scoring ability stood out, as he led all defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal. His remarkable scoring touch also saw him set a new NHL record for the most goals in a season by a defenseman aged 33 or older.
This year marks Josi’s third Norris Trophy nomination, underscoring his consistent excellence and leadership on the Predators' blue line. His blend of offensive skill and defensive acumen makes him a perennial contender for the award.
Cale Makar: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Cale Makar continues to astonish in his young NHL career, tallying 90 points this season. He has shattered team records for both assists and points by a defenseman in a single season, highlighting his central role in the Colorado Avalanche’s offensive machine. Makar's well-rounded game is reflected in his rankings among defensemen, where he placed second in goals, assists, and points.
Remarkably, this is Makar’s fourth Norris Trophy nomination in just his first five seasons in the league, an achievement that speaks volumes about his skill, consistency, and the high regard in which he is held by the hockey community.
A Tightly Contested Race
The competition for the Norris Trophy this year is exceptionally close, with each finalist bringing a unique set of skills and accomplishments to the table. Hughes' record-setting assists and power-play productivity, Josi's goal-scoring prowess and defensive leadership, and Makar's record-breaking contributions and offensive dominance make this one of the most closely watched Norris Trophy races in recent years.
Regardless of who takes home the award, each finalist has already made their mark on this season, redefining what it means to be an elite defenseman in the NHL. As the league evolves, players like Hughes, Josi, and Makar are at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of their positions and contributing to the game in ways that were once unimaginable. Their nominations for the Norris Trophy are not only a recognition of their individual seasons but also a testament to their impact on the sport of hockey.
As the NHL awards ceremony approaches, anticipation builds to see which of these talented defensemen will be crowned the league’s best. The winner of the Norris Trophy will not only have their name etched in history but also inspire the next generation of players with their exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for the game.