The race for the Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the National Hockey League's (NHL) top defenseman, is heating up with three exceptional talents leading the charge: Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators, and Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche. Each has made an indelible mark on the 2023 season, setting records, leading statistical categories, and dazzling on the ice, making the decision for this year's Norris Trophy one of the most anticipated in recent memory.
Quinn Hughes: Breaking New Ground for the Canucks
Quinn Hughes has had a season for the ages, amassing an impressive 92 points and leading all NHL defensemen in power play assists. His prowess on the power play was further highlighted by ranking second in power-play points among NHL defensemen. Over the span of three seasons, Hughes has recorded 200 assists, a testament to his playmaking abilities and importance to his team's offensive efforts.
Hughes's achievements have not only put him in the Norris Trophy conversation but have also established him as a pivotal figure in the Canucks' lineup. Notably, Hughes is the first player from the Canucks to ever be named a Norris Trophy finalist. Should he win, Hughes would also become the fourth American player to claim the Norris Trophy, joining an elite group of defensemen who have excelled at the highest levels of the game.
Roman Josi: Scoring Sensation from the Blue Line
Roman Josi, the Predators' captain, has once again demonstrated why he is considered among the elite defensemen in the NHL. Josi scored an impressive 85 points this season, leading all defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal. His goal-scoring prowess was particularly notable as he set a new record for the most goals in a season by a defenseman aged 33 or older.
This season marks Josi’s third Norris Trophy nomination, a testament to his consistent performance and importance to the Predators. His ability to contribute offensively while fulfilling his defensive duties has made him a cornerstone of the team and one of the most respected defensemen in the league.
Cale Makar: A Towering Presence on the Avalanche's Blue Line
Cale Makar's season has been nothing short of spectacular, with the young defenseman tallying 90 points. His performance has led to new team records for both assists and points by a defenseman, underscoring his critical role in the Avalanche's success. Makar ranked second among defensemen in goals, assists, and points, showcasing his abilities as an all-around player who can impact the game in multiple ways.
Remarkably, this is Makar's fourth Norris Trophy nomination in only his first five seasons in the NHL, an accomplishment that highlights his elite skills and impact on the ice. Makar’s ability to contribute at both ends of the ice while skating with a blend of speed and finesse makes him a perennial contender for the Norris Trophy and one of the most exciting defensemen to watch in the league.
Conclusion: A Tightly Contested Race
The 2023 Norris Trophy race is among the most closely watched and hotly contested in recent years. Quinn Hughes, Roman Josi, and Cale Makar have each made compelling cases for why they deserve the prestigious award, through record-setting performances, leadership, and their indispensable roles on their respective teams. As the season comes to a close, the NHL community eagerly awaits the announcement of the Norris Trophy winner, recognizing the outstanding defenseman who has best demonstrated his prowess during the regular season. Regardless of the outcome, each finalist has cemented his place among the NHL's defensive elite, setting the stage for exciting seasons to come.