Dahlin, Makar, Werenski Vie for Norris Trophy

Key facts

• Rasmus Dahlin, Cale Makar, and Zach Werenski are finalists for the Norris Trophy.
• The award recognizes the NHL's top defenseman for all-around ability.
• Cale Makar is a three-time winner seeking his fourth Norris Trophy.
• Rasmus Dahlin is a first-time finalist.
• Zach Werenski is a finalist for the second consecutive year.
• Dahlin recorded a career-high 74 points for the Buffalo Sabres.
• Makar posted 79 points in 75 games for the Colorado Avalanche.
• Werenski tallied 81 points and 22 goals for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Elite Trio Named Norris Trophy Finalists

The race for the National Hockey League's most prestigious defenseman award has narrowed to three exceptional talents. Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres, Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets were officially named finalists on Thursday for the James Norris Memorial Trophy. This recognition marks the culmination of a rigorous season where these players demonstrated unparalleled skill and impact from the blueline. The Norris Trophy is presented annually to the NHL player judged to have demonstrated the greatest all-around ability at the defenseman position. It is a coveted honor, reflecting not just offensive prowess but also defensive acumen and overall contribution to a team's success. The selection process involves voting by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) at the conclusion of the regular season. This year's finalists represent a compelling mix of established dominance and emerging greatness. Each player has carved a unique path to this stage, showcasing the diverse ways a defenseman can excel and influence the game at its highest level.

Dahlin's Breakthrough Season

For Rasmus Dahlin, this nomination represents a significant career milestone. The Buffalo Sabres captain is a first-time finalist for the Norris Trophy, capping a season where he was instrumental in ending the team's 14-year playoff drought. Dahlin's leadership was evident as he guided the Sabres to their first division title since 2010. Individually, Dahlin achieved a career-high 74 points in 77 games, with 19 goals and 55 assists. His average ice time of 24:11 per game underscores his importance to the team's structure and success. Earlier in the month, Dahlin also received a nomination for the Bill Masterton Trophy, acknowledging his perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication. His journey to finalist status highlights a season of growth and impact, solidifying his position as one of the league's premier defensemen.

Makar's Continued Dominance

Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche continues to etch his name into NHL history. The finalist is a six-time Norris Trophy nominee and a three-time winner, having established himself as one of the game's all-time great defensemen. Makar has missed the Norris shortlist in only one season of his career, a testament to his consistent elite performance. This season, Makar recorded 20 goals and 79 points in 75 games, helping the Avalanche secure the Presidents' Trophy as the league's top regular-season team. He also made history by becoming the second defenseman, after Bobby Orr, to be named a Norris finalist for six consecutive seasons within his first seven career years. Makar is also the first NHL defenseman in 34 years to achieve three consecutive 20-goal seasons. Having won the award last season and twice previously (in 2022), Makar is aiming for his fourth career Norris Trophy, further cementing his legacy.

Werenski's Resurgent Campaign

Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets is a Norris Trophy finalist for the second consecutive year. He was a driving force behind his team's late-season surge, nearly propelling the Blue Jackets into the postseason. Werenski's offensive output was particularly impressive this year. He finished the regular season with 81 points and 22 goals in 75 games, tying for the league lead among defensemen in goals scored. His scoring was a critical component of Columbus's strong finish, which saw them go 20-3-4 in their final 27 games. Werenski was the runner-up to Cale Makar for the award in the 2024-25 season, indicating a fierce competition between the two. Werenski's consistent high-level performance underscores his status as one of the league's elite offensive defensemen.

The Award's Significance and Context

The James Norris Memorial Trophy is more than just an individual accolade; it represents the pinnacle of defensive play in the NHL. The award celebrates players who masterfully balance offensive contributions with defensive responsibility, often carrying significant minutes and playing crucial roles in all situations. Makar's quest for a fourth Norris Trophy places him in rare company, challenging the historical dominance of legends like Bobby Orr. Dahlin's emergence as a finalist signifies a new generation of defensive stars, while Werenski's sustained excellence demonstrates his consistent impact on his team's fortunes. The voting by the PHWA ensures that the award is decided by those who closely analyze the game throughout the season, providing a well-informed judgment on the league's best defenseman.

Looking Ahead: The Finalists' Impact

The announcement of the finalists sets the stage for an anticipated reveal of the Norris Trophy winner. Each of these defensemen has had a profound impact on their respective teams, driving success through their unique skill sets and leadership. Dahlin's contribution to Buffalo's long-awaited playoff berth is a narrative of team resurgence powered by individual brilliance. Makar's continued dominance with the Presidents' Trophy-winning Avalanche showcases a dynasty in the making, built on his exceptional play. Werenski's offensive explosion and leadership in Columbus highlight his importance to a team striving for consistent contention. The winner will be announced at a later date, concluding a season that has showcased the exceptional talent and evolving landscape of NHL defense.

The bottom line

• The Norris Trophy finalists for the NHL's top defenseman are Rasmus Dahlin (Sabres), Cale Makar (Avalanche), and Zach Werenski (Blue Jackets).
• Cale Makar, a three-time winner, is seeking his fourth Norris Trophy.
• Rasmus Dahlin is a first-time finalist, having helped the Sabres end a 14-year playoff drought.
• Zach Werenski is a finalist for the second consecutive year, recording 81 points and 22 goals.
• Dahlin achieved a career-high 74 points, while Makar posted 79 points in 75 games.
• The award is voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA).