Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar is the winner of the Norris Trophy for the second time in his career after setting franchise records in goals and points by a blueliner.
He topped the Columbus Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski and Vancouver Canucks’ Quinn Hughes in voting by the Professional Hockey Writers Association. Makar won his first award in 2021-22.
He opened the season with a 13-game point streak, second-longest by a defenseman in NHL history behind Bobby Orr’s 15, and went on to lead defensemen in goals (30), assists (62) and points (92). He became the first defenseman to reach the 30-goal mark since Mike Green in 2008-09.
Makar received 176 first-place votes and 1,861 total points. Weresnki had 13 first-place votes and 1,266 points, and Hughes, last year’s winner, had two and 918.
Makar was surprised with the award during a golf outing.
The NHL will announce the winners of the Hart Trophy (MVP to his team) and Vezina Trophy (goaltender) during an hourlong televised show on June 12 (6 p.m. ET, TNT) before Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Hart Trophy finalists are Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers; Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets; and Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
Vezina Trophy finalists are Hellebuyck; Darcy Kuemper, Los Angeles Kings; and Andrei Vasilevskiy, Lightning
Other NHL awards winners
Ted Lindsay Award (most outstanding player): Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
Jack Adams Award (coach): Spencer Carbery, Washington Capitals.
Masterton Trophy (perseverance): Sean Monahan, Columbus Blue Jackets
Mark Messier Leadership Award: Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals