The race for the mantle of the NHL’s premier defenseman has reached its final stage. On Thursday, the National Hockey League officially announced that Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres, and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets are the three Norris Trophy finalists for the 2025-26 season. The award is presented annually to the defenseman who demonstrates the greatest all-around ability at the position throughout the regular season.
Cale Makar: The Gold Standard of Consistency
Colorado Avalanche superstar Cale Makar continues to rewrite the history books. By being named one of the Norris Trophy finalists for the sixth consecutive year, Makar joins legendary Hall of Famer Bobby Orr as the only defensemen in NHL history to be shortlisted for the award six times within their first seven seasons. Makar, who previously won the trophy in 2021-22 and 2024-25, entered the season as the defending champion and lived up to the billing.
During the 2025-26 campaign, Makar was the engine behind Colorado’s run to the Presidents' Trophy. He recorded 20 goals and 59 assists for a total of 79 points in 75 games, ranking third among all NHL blueliners in scoring. Beyond the points, Makar’s efficiency was evident in his league-leading +32 plus/minus rating and his 29 power-play points. Averaging nearly 25 minutes of ice time per game, he remains the benchmark for the modern two-way defenseman.
Zach Werenski’s Statistical Masterclass in Columbus
For the second straight year, Zach Werenski has earned a spot as a finalist after finishing as the runner-up to Makar last season. Werenski’s 2025-26 campaign was nothing short of historic for the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 28-year-old led all NHL defensemen in shots on goal with 260 and finished second in total points with 81 (22 goals, 59 assists) in 75 contests.
Werenski’s impact was particularly felt at even strength, where he tied for the league lead among defensemen with 18 goals. He became only the 10th blueliner in NHL history to lead his team in scoring in consecutive seasons, tying the Blue Jackets' single-season franchise record for assists in the process. His workload was equally impressive, ranking second in the league with an average of 26:37 of ice time per game. Werenski was the catalyst for a mid-season 20-3-4 run that propelled Columbus back into the playoff conversation, cementing his status as one of the game's elite workhorses.
Rasmus Dahlin Reaches New Heights in Buffalo
Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin rounds out the trio of finalists following the most productive season of his professional career. Dahlin was the heartbeat of the Sabres' defensive corps, concluding the regular season with 19 goals and 74 points across 77 games. His ability to impact the game in all three zones was reflected in his 194 shots, 79 blocked shots, and 67 hits.
Dahlin’s season was defined by his heavy usage and leadership. He logged massive minutes for Buffalo, often facing the opposition's top scoring lines while serving as the primary distributor on the power play. His 74 points represent a career high, and his inclusion as a finalist marks a significant milestone for the former first-overall pick, who has evolved into one of the most complete defensive anchors in the Eastern Conference.
A Historic Race for the Norris Trophy
The 2025-26 Norris Trophy finalists represent a shift toward high-octane, offensive production from the blue line, with all three candidates surpassing the 70-point threshold. The winner will be determined by a vote from the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) and will be announced during the NHL Awards ceremony later this summer.
- Cale Makar: 79 points, +32 rating, 6th consecutive nomination.
- Zach Werenski: 81 points, 260 shots, 2nd in NHL ice time.
- Rasmus Dahlin: 74 points, career-high goals and assists, Sabres captain.
Whether Makar secures a third trophy to join the ranks of the all-time greats, or Werenski or Dahlin capture their first, this year's finalists have set a staggering standard for defensive excellence in the National Hockey League.
Sources & Original Reporting
