The race for the Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the National Hockey League's (NHL) top defenseman, is one of the most anticipated honors each season. This year, the competition has reached an exciting crescendo with Quinn Hughes, Roman Josi, and Cale Makar named as the finalists. Each of these exceptional players has showcased their immense talent and contributions to their respective teams throughout the season, making the decision a difficult one for the voters.
Quinn Hughes: Setting New Standards
Quinn Hughes, the dynamic defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, has not only broken records but also set new standards for defensemen in the league. Accumulating an impressive 92 points over the season, Hughes's performance on the ice has been nothing short of spectacular. A key factor in his standout season has been his exceptional ability on the power play, leading all NHL defensemen in power play assists and ranking second in power play points among his peers. Furthermore, Hughes achieved a significant milestone by recording 200 assists over just three seasons, underscoring his pivotal role in the Canucks' offensive strategies.
What makes Hughes's candidacy for the Norris Trophy even more noteworthy is his potential to make history. If awarded, he would not only be the first Canucks player to ever win the Norris Trophy but also just the fourth American to do so, joining an elite group of defensemen who have left an indelible mark on the game.
Roman Josi: Breaking Records at 33
Roman Josi, the captain of the Nashville Predators, has continued to defy age and expectations by delivering one of the most remarkable seasons of his career. Scoring 85 points, Josi demonstrated his scoring prowess by leading all NHL defensemen in goals, power-play goals, and shots on goal. His 2023 season saw him score the most goals in a season by a defenseman aged 33 or older in NHL history, a testament to his durability and skill level which remains unsurpassed.
This season marks Josi’s third Norris Trophy nomination, a feat that underscores his consistent excellence and dominance on the ice. His ability to impact the game in multiple facets, from scoring goals to setting up plays, makes him a formidable candidate for the prestigious award.
Cale Makar: A Rising Star's Continued Ascendancy
Cale Makar, the Colorado Avalanche's star defenseman, continues to ascend the ranks of the NHL's elite with another stellar season. Amassing 90 points, Makar set new team records for both assists and points by a defenseman. His rankings are impressive, placing second among defensemen in goals, assists, and points, showcasing his well-rounded game and his importance to the Avalanche's success.
Notably, in only his first five seasons, this year marks Makar's fourth nomination for the Norris Trophy. This remarkable achievement highlights his consistent performance and the high expectations that have surrounded him since his debut in the league. Makar's extraordinary skills and hockey IQ have made him a perennial candidate for the Norris Trophy, and this year is no exception.
Conclusion: A Battle of Titans
The battle for the Norris Trophy this year is among the most closely watched, with Quinn Hughes, Roman Josi, and Cale Makar all presenting formidable cases for the accolade. Each player brings unique strengths to the table—Hughes with his record-setting assists and power play contributions, Josi with his goal-scoring ability and historic achievements, and Makar with his all-around game and impact on his team's success. This competition not only highlights the exceptional talent of these defensemen but also the evolving role of defensemen in the modern NHL—a role that emphasizes not just defensive duties but also significant contributions to the team's offensive play. As the league awaits the announcement of the winner, the contributions of these three athletes this season will be remembered as some of the most significant by defensemen in recent history.