Makar Leads the Pack in Preseason Norris Trophy Race

The NHL season is upon us, and NHL.com kicks off its Trophy Tracker series with the Norris Trophy, awarded to the league’s top defenseman.

Makar: A Force to Be Reckoned With

Cale Makar, the young Avalanche defenseman, is already etching his name alongside legends like Orr and Coffey. At just 25, he boasts a staggering 1.07 points per game average, ranking third all-time (minimum 150 games). His achievement of 300 points in only 280 games solidifies his exceptional talent.

Not Just Hardware, But a Drive for Excellence

Makar achieved the prestigious trifecta in 2022 – Norris Trophy, Conn Smythe Trophy, and Stanley Cup. While hardware is a bonus, Makar prioritizes team success and personal growth.

A Look at the Competition

While Makar is the frontrunner (73 voting points), the race isn’t without competition. Roman Josi (Predators) and Quinn Hughes (Canucks), last year’s winner, follow closely with 47 and 43 points, respectively. Adam Fox (Rangers) also received a first-place vote.

Pushing the Limits

Despite his accolades, Makar strives for constant improvement. He emphasizes consistency and staying reliable for his team throughout the season.

An Elite Player Deserving of Recognition

Teammate Mikko Rantanen lauds Makar as “the best [defenseman] in the world.” Makar’s offensive prowess shines on both power play (leading defensemen in points) and penalty kill, with the unique distinction of averaging over 4 minutes on the power play and over 2 minutes shorthanded.

The Verdict

With his exceptional talent, relentless drive, and well-rounded skillset, Makar is the clear favorite for the Norris Trophy. Only time will tell if he can live up to the hype, but one thing’s for sure – the NHL is in for a treat watching him compete.