The NHL has unleashed its Norris Trophy finalists for the 2025-2026 season, and let’s not mince words: this isn’t a race; it’s a coronation. Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche isn’t just a frontrunner; he’s the undisputed king of the blueline, and the trophy is his to lose.
The league officially named Makar, Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin, and Columbus Blue Jackets veteran Zach Werenski as the top three contenders for this prestigious award, which celebrates the “best defenseman who demonstrates the greatest all-around ability.” The announcement, a mere formality for many, came down on Wednesday, May 7th, 2026, confirming what hockey aficionados worldwide have known for months.
Makar: A Maestro on Skates
Makar isn’t merely a finalist; he is the gold standard, the benchmark against which all other defensemen are measured. He laced up for 78 games, orchestrating a staggering 25 goals and dishing out 68 assists, culminating in an eye-popping 93 points – a total that didn’t just lead all defensemen, it left them in his rearview mirror. His plus/minus rating of +35? That’s not just dominance; it shows his unparalleled impact on every shift.
This man is a force of nature, a maestro on the power play, where he racked up 38 power play points, dictating the flow of the game with an almost casual brilliance. Averaging nearly 25 minutes on ice per game, Makar’s offensive firepower, combined with his elite skating and seamless defensive zone exits, makes him the complete package. He doesn’t just play the game; he bends it to his will.
Who else in the modern era has so consistently redefined what’s possible from the back end?
“It’s always an honor to be recognized among such talented players,” Makar told NHL.com, ever the picture of humility. “Rasmus and Zach both had incredible seasons. I just try to contribute to our team’s success every night.”
Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic, a legend in his own right, knows precisely the generational talent he possesses.
“Cale continues to elevate his game,” Sakic told the Denver Post. “He’s a generational talent, and his impact on our team is immeasurable. He’s certainly deserving of this nomination, and frankly, so much more.”
Dahlin’s European Flair and Werenski’s North American Grit
While Makar operates on a different plane, let’s not overlook the phenomenal seasons from the other two. Rasmus Dahlin, with his distinct European flair and vision, has had a hell of a season for the Sabres. The captain put up 20 goals and 55 assists for a robust 75 points across 80 games.
His +12 plus/minus is solid, reflecting his leadership as he often logged over 26 minutes per night, guiding Buffalo through a quiet but significant resurgence.
Dahlin’s nomination isn’t just about individual numbers; it’s about leading a franchise forward, demonstrating growth on both ends of the ice. He’s the very definition of a modern, two-way defenseman, embodying the blend of skill and responsibility that defines the best blueliners in the game today.
“This is a team award for me,” Dahlin said to the Buffalo News, echoing the sentiment of a true leader. “My teammates and coaches push me every day. To be mentioned with Makar and Werenski, two fantastic players, means a lot.”
Then there’s Zach Werenski, a player whose North American grit and determination shone brightly amidst the gloom of a struggling franchise. His nomination is a story of sheer individual brilliance, showing he carried a monumental load. On a beleaguered Columbus Blue Jackets team, he still managed to net 18 goals and tally 48 assists for 66 points in 75 games.
His -5 plus/minus rating, while seemingly low, speaks volumes about the team’s struggles, not his gargantuan effort.
Werenski played over 25 minutes per game, often against the opposition’s top lines, battling every single night. This is his first Norris nomination, a well-deserved recognition of his relentless drive and unwavering commitment. It’s incredibly tough to shine when your team is mired in the basement, but Werenski didn’t just shine; he blazed a trail.
“It’s humbling,” Werenski told the Columbus Dispatch. “You play to win, but individual recognition like this, especially after a tough year for the team, is something I’m very proud of. It motivates you to keep getting better.”
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Source: Google News
