The race for the Norris Trophy this season is heating up, with Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes emerging as leading contenders. But will Hughes manage to surpass Makar as this season progresses? Here’s a breakdown of the current candidates for the NHL’s prestigious award for the best defenceman.
Current Standings in the Norris Trophy Race
Cale Makar is the standout candidate at the halfway point of the season. The 27-year-old defenceman for the Colorado Avalanche has accumulated 48 points in 42 games, leading all defencemen in scoring. His solid play has contributed to Colorado’s status as the best team in the NHL.
Cale Makar: A Dominant Presence
- Points: 48 in 42 games
- Assists: 36 (7th in the league)
- Game-winning goals: 3
- Average ice time: 25 minutes per game
In addition to his offensive stats, Makar is set to represent Team Canada in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy. His performance puts him on track for a potential third consecutive season with over 90 points.
Quinn Hughes: The Underdog
Quinn Hughes, now with the Minnesota Wild, was once considered the favorite to win the Norris Trophy. After being traded from Vancouver, his performance has improved significantly. Hughes has recorded 45 points in 38 games since his trade and leads all defenders with 16 goals.
- Points: 45 in 38 games
- Plus/minus: +6
- Average ice time: 27 minutes per game
- Time spent in the offensive zone: 46.6%
The 2024 Norris Trophy winner has shown resilience after struggling earlier in the season, demonstrating the ability to bounce back and regain his top form.
Other Contenders for the Norris Trophy
Aside from Makar and Hughes, several other players are also in the conversation:
Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets)
- Points: 45 in 40 games
- Average ice time: 26 minutes per game
- Plus/minus: +5
Werenski is looking to build on his successful seasons and will join Hughes representing Team USA at the Olympics.
Moritz Seider (Detroit Red Wings)
- Points: 31 in 44 games
- Average ice time: 25 minutes per game
- Plus/minus: +11
Seider has been a crucial player for the Red Wings and aims to enhance his record from his rookie season.
Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadiens)
- Points: 42 games with a point-per-game pace
- Speed: 22.97 mph (95th percentile)
- Offensive zone time: 46%
The young defenceman is making a significant impact in his second NHL season.
Jakob Chychrun (Washington Capitals)
- Goals: 15 (with 4 game winners)
- Shots: 143 (99th percentile)
Chychrun’s offensive capabilities make him a formidable contender this season.
J.J. Moser (Tampa Bay Lightning)
- Points: 14 in 40 games
- Plus/minus: +32 (best in his position)
Moser’s impressive defensive play has garnered attention and praise throughout the league.
Conclusion: Who Will Claim the Norris Trophy?
The race remains competitive, with Makar currently in the lead. However, the season is far from over. Players like Hughes and others are demonstrating they too can stake their claim to the Norris Trophy, based on their performances in the coming months. Only time will tell who will ultimately take home the prestigious award from the NHL.
