The Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL’s top defenseman who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position, has found its finalists in Quinn Hughes, Roman Josi, and Cale Makar. This year, the race to clinch the prestigious award is more intense than ever, with each defenseman presenting a compelling case through their remarkable performances over the season.
Quinn Hughes: Breaking Records and Making History
Quinn Hughes, the dynamic defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, has not only scored an impressive 92 points this season but has also led all NHL defensemen in power play assists. His prowess on the power play did not stop there; Hughes ranked second among NHL defensemen in power-play points. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded 200 assists, showcasing his consistency and skill in facilitating scoring opportunities for his team.
Notably, Hughes is the first player from the Canucks to ever be a finalist for the Norris Trophy. His nomination is a historic moment for the franchise and a testament to his exceptional contributions on the ice. If successful, Hughes could become the fourth American to win the Norris Trophy, joining a prestigious group of players who have excelled at the highest level of the sport.
Roman Josi: Veteran Leadership and Record-Breaking Performance
At 33 years old, Roman Josi, the captain of the Nashville Predators, continues to defy expectations. This season, he scored 85 points and led all NHL defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal. His goal-scoring prowess was highlighted by setting a new record for the most goals in a season by a defenseman aged 33 or older in NHL history. This achievement underscores Josi's undiminished skill and impact on the game, despite being in the later stages of his career.
Josi is no stranger to Norris Trophy nominations, as this marks his third. His consistent performance and leadership both on and off the ice have made him a central figure in the Predators’ defense and a deserving candidate for the prestigious award once again.
Cale Makar: A Rising Star Continuing to Shine
Cale Makar, the Colorado Avalanche's star defenseman, tallied an impressive 90 points this season. By setting new team records for assists and points by a defenseman, Makar has continued to elevate his game and prove his worth as one of the league’s top talents. Ranking second among defensemen in goals, assists, and points, Makar's contributions have been pivotal to his team's success.
This nomination marks Makar's fourth Norris Trophy nomination in just his first five seasons, an extraordinary achievement that highlights his immediate and sustained impact in the NHL. Makar's blend of skill, athleticism, and hockey intelligence makes him a perennial contender for the Norris and a defenseman who will likely shape the future of the sport.
A Closely Watched Race
The competition for the Norris Trophy this year is among the most closely watched and debated in recent memory. Each finalist brings a unique set of skills and accomplishments to the table, making the decision all the more difficult for the panel of voters. Whether it's Hughes' groundbreaking achievements and playmaking ability, Josi's leadership and record-setting performances, or Makar's consistent excellence and impact on the ice, each has staked a strong claim to the award.
As the NHL community and fans eagerly await the announcement, the significance of the Norris Trophy as a marker of defensive excellence remains undiminished. It is a celebration of the skill, determination, and influence of the league’s best defensemen, and this year's finalists exemplify those qualities in full measure. The winner of the Norris Trophy will not only etch their name in the history books but also affirm their stature as an elite defenseman whose all-round game stands above the rest.