Norris Trophy Finalists Named by NHL

In an announcement that might not surprise anyone, but sets up an intriguing ballot, the NHL has named Quinn Hughes, Cale Makar and Zach Werenski as the finalists for the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman.

Quinn Hughes, Cale Makar and Zach Werenski are the finalists for the Norris Trophy! 🏆 #NHLAwards

The James Norris Memorial Trophy is awarded annually "to the defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position." pic.twitter.com/GQSaLKugOT
— NHL (@NHL) April 29, 2025

Cale Maker, a finalist for Norris, led all defenseman with 92 points

Makar, already a winner of the Norris in 2022, is a perennial finalist for the award (this is his 5th time in the Final 3), and this year, set career highs with 30 goals and 92 points for the Colorado Avalanche, while posting a plus/minus of +28, playing an average of 25:43 a night.

He also became the first D-man with back-to-back 90-point seasons since Paul Coffey and Al MacInnis both did it in 1989-90 & 1990-91.

Quinn Hughes, defending Norris Trophy winner, is a finalist again this year

Hughes is the defending Norris winner, and had another strong year for the Vancouver Canucks, his second straight season averaging well over a point-per-game (1.12), finishing with 76 points in 68 games. He averaged 25:44 time on ice per game.

Werenski lifted his game to new heights this season for the Columbus Blue Jackets, smashing all of his career marks while finishing first in ice time in the NHL with 26:45, and second among defensemen in points behind Makar.

Werenski had 23 goals and 59 assists for 82 points, breaking the Blue Jackets' team records for a blueliner in all three categories. He had a +12 rating.