The Race for the Norris Trophy Tightens with Hughes, Josi, and Makar as Finalists
The competition for the Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the defenseman demonstrating the greatest all-around ability at the position throughout the NHL season, is intensifying. This year, Quinn Hughes, Roman Josi, and Cale Makar have emerged as the finalists, each bringing remarkable achievements to the table.
Quinn Hughes: A Season of Milestones
Vancouver Canucks' Quinn Hughes has had a season for the record books, tallying an impressive 92 points. His prowess was particularly evident on the power play, where he led all NHL defensemen in assists and ranked second in power-play points. Hughes’s ability to consistently create scoring opportunities from the blue line has been nothing short of extraordinary, culminating in a three-season stretch where he recorded 200 assists.
Hughes's nomination is not just a personal milestone but a historic moment for the Canucks as well, as he becomes the first player from the franchise to be a finalist for the Norris Trophy. Adding to the anticipation, Hughes could join the exclusive list of Americans who have won the prestigious award, potentially becoming the fourth to do so.
Roman Josi: Breaking Records and Setting Standards
Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators has also had a standout season, registering 85 points. But it's his goal-scoring ability that has set him apart, leading all NHL defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal. At 33 years old, Josi's 23 goals this season are the most by any defenseman his age or older in NHL history, showcasing his unparalleled talent and fitness.
This is Josi’s third time as a finalist for the Norris Trophy, underscoring his consistent excellence and enduring impact on the game. His achievements are not just a testament to his individual skill but also to his leadership and ability to elevate the Predators' competitive edge.
Cale Makar: A Force to be Reckoned With
The youngest among the finalists, Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, has not let his age deter his ascent in the NHL. His season tally of 90 points set new team records for both assists and points by a defenseman. Makar stood out in nearly every metric, ranking second among defensemen in goals, assists, and points.
Already in his short career, Makar is a finalist for the Norris Trophy for the fourth time in his first five seasons. This extraordinary beginning to his career not only highlights his incredible talent and work ethic but also his potential to redefine the role of a defenseman in the modern NHL.
Conclusion
The quest for the Norris Trophy this season showcases the incredible depth of talent across the NHL, particularly among defensemen who are redefining the parameters of their position. Hughes, Josi, and Makar each bring a unique set of skills and achievements to the competition, making this year’s race one of the most closely watched in recent history.
From Hughes's power-play superiority and historic milestones with the Canucks, Josi's scoring feats and leadership, to Makar's record-setting performances and meteoric rise, the stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion to the Norris Trophy race. As the NHL community eagerly awaits the announcement, the legacy of the award as a marker of excellence in defense stands to be further enriched by whichever of these remarkable athletes claims the honor.