As the Stanley Cup Playoffs progress, the National Hockey League is beginning to reveal the finalists for its significant awards for the 2024-25 season.
Recently, the league named the three finalists for the Norris Trophy, presented to the league`s top defenseman. The nominees for this esteemed honor are Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks.
Quinn Hughes, the defending Norris Trophy recipient, had another standout season, leading the Canucks in points (76) and assists (60) during the regular campaign. His scoring lead over the next player on the Canucks was 26 points, a margin surpassed only by Erik Karlsson (34 points over his team in 2022-23) among defensemen leading their clubs. This marks the fourth consecutive season Hughes has achieved the 60-point milestone, a rare feat accomplished by only three other defensemen in NHL history.
Cale Makar also had a dominant year, pacing all NHL defensemen in points (92), goals (30), and assists (62). The Avalanche star previously claimed the Norris Trophy following his performance in the 2021-22 season.
Zach Werenski of the Blue Jackets posted career bests in points (82), goals (23), and assists (59). He became the first defenseman in Columbus franchise history to lead the team in scoring. Should Werenski win, he would be the first player from the Blue Jackets organization to receive the Norris Trophy.
The remaining NHL Awards finalists are expected to be announced daily through the middle of May. The 2025 NHL Awards ceremony is scheduled for June 2025, though a specific date has not yet been disclosed.
Vezina Trophy Finalists
The Vezina Trophy is awarded annually to the goaltender judged to be the best at his position.
- Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets)
- Darcy Kuemper (Los Angeles Kings)
- Andrei Vasilevskiy (Tampa Bay Lightning)
Norris Trophy Finalists
The Norris Trophy is presented to the defenseman who demonstrates the greatest all-round ability in the position throughout the season.
- Quinn Hughes (Vancouver Canucks)
- Cale Makar (Colorado Avalanche)
- Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets)
