Rasmus Dahlin, Cale Makar, and Zach Werenski finalists for Norris Trophy as NHL's best defenseman

"The NHL announced the three finalists on Thursday for the James Norris Memorial Trophy, awarded annually "to the defenseman voted the best at his position." Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin, Colorado Avalanche defenseman , and Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski are up for the award."

"Dahlin recorded 74 points (19g, 55a) in 77 games, which ranked sixth among all defenders and was a career high. The 27-year-old captain led the Sabres in ice time per game (24:11) and scoring from the backend. He is a first-time Norris finalist and would be the first Sabres player to win the award. He was also named a finalist for the Masterton Trophy on Monday."

"Makar has been a finalist for six consecutive seasons, winning the trophy twice (2022, 2025), and is looking to become only the 10th player to win the award at least three times. The 27-year-old was third among defensemen in points with 79 (20g, 59a) in 75 games for the Avalanche. He averaged 24:51 of ice time per game, which ranked first on Colorado and eighth-best in the NHL."

"Werenski was second in scoring among blueliners, behind only Evan Bouchard (95), with 81 points (22g, 59a) in 75 games for the Blue Jackets. He finished tied for third in goals by a defenseman and led all defensemen in shots on goal (260). Werenski was also second in the NHL in ice time per game (26:37). He was a first-time finalist last season and is looking to become the first Blue Jackets player to win the award."

The NHL named Rasmus Dahlin, Cale Makar, and Zach Werenski as finalists for the James Norris Memorial Trophy, given annually to the defenseman voted best at the position. Dahlin recorded 74 points in 77 games, set a career high, led the Buffalo Sabres in ice time per game at 24:11, and produced scoring from the backend. Makar reached 79 points in 75 games, averaged 24:51 of ice time per game, and has been a finalist for six straight seasons, winning twice. Werenski totaled 81 points in 75 games, led defensemen in shots on goal with 260, and averaged 26:37 of ice time per game. The NHL will announce Hart Memorial Trophy finalists on May 8.

Read at RMNB