The race for the Norris Trophy, an annual award given to the National Hockey League's (NHL) top defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position, has never been more electrifying. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on three exceptional talents: Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators, and Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche. Each of these finalists brings a unique set of skills and achievements to the table, making the decision an incredibly tough one for the voters.
Quinn Hughes: A Standout Season
Quinn Hughes has had an outstanding season, setting the ice ablaze with his performance. With a remarkable 92 points to his name, Hughes not only solidified his position as a top-tier defenseman but also led all NHL defensemen in power play assists. His prowess didn't stop there; Hughes also ranked second in power-play points among defensemen and astonishingly recorded 200 assists over three seasons. This remarkable achievement underscores Hughes' essential role in his team's success and his exceptional skill in facilitating play.
His nomination is a historic moment for the Canucks, as Hughes becomes the first player from the franchise to be a finalist for the Norris Trophy. If victorious, Hughes would join the prestigious company of Americans who have won the Norris Trophy, becoming just the fourth to do so. Hughes' blend of offensive capability and defensive skill makes him a formidable contender for this year's award.
Roman Josi: Breaking Records and Setting Standards
Roman Josi's season was nothing short of spectacular, as he led all NHL defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal, amassing a total of 85 points. At 33, Josi demonstrated that age is but a number by scoring the most goals in a season by a defenseman aged 33 or older in NHL history. This record-breaking achievement not only highlights Josi's exceptional ability to find the back of the net but also his consistency and endurance throughout the season.
This year marks Josi’s third Norris Trophy nomination, a testament to his sustained excellence and leadership on the ice. His offensive contributions, coupled with his defensive prowess, make him a well-rounded defenseman who is crucial to the Predators' success. Josi’s exceptional performance throughout the season has once again placed him in the running for one of the most coveted individual awards in the NHL.
Cale Makar: Continuing To Rewrite the Record Books
Cale Makar's nomination for the Norris Trophy is a reflection of his remarkable talent and impact on the ice. Scoring an impressive 90 points this season, Makar set new team records for both assists and points by a defenseman. Ranking second among defensemen in goals, assists, and points, Makar showcased his offensive capabilities, making significant contributions to his team's performance.
This year's nomination marks Makar's fourth Norris Trophy nomination in just his first five seasons, an achievement that speaks volumes about his skills, consistency, and significance to the Colorado Avalanche. Makar’s blend of agility, vision, and offensive talent has not only made him one of the most exciting defensemen to watch but also a perennial favorite for the Norris Trophy.
A Tightly Contested Race
The Norris Trophy race this year is among the most closely watched, with each candidate bringing exceptional talent and record-setting performances to the table. Quinn Hughes, with his historic season for the Canucks, Roman Josi's record-breaking achievements and leadership, and Cale Makar's continuous rewriting of the record books, make this one of the most competitive Norris Trophy races in recent memory.
The achievements of these three defensemen not only highlight their personal excellence but also underscore the evolving role of the defenseman in today’s NHL. No longer just the last line of defense, these players have demonstrated that they are key contributors to their team's offensive play, providing both assists and crucial goals. As the NHL continues to evolve, so does the role of the defenseman, with Hughes, Josi, and Makar leading the way.
As the anticipation builds towards the announcement of the Norris Trophy winner, the spotlight on Hughes, Josi, and Makar affirms their remarkable seasons and the indelible impact they’ve had on their teams and the league at large. Regardless of who takes home the trophy, each has already etched their name in NHL history through their phenomenal play on the ice.