Trophy Tracker: Cale Makar Leads Norris Trophy Race as NHL’s Top Defenseman

As the 2024-25 NHL season unfolds, the competition for the James Norris Memorial Trophy is intensifying. This coveted award, given to the league’s top defenseman, highlights players who excel in skill, consistency, and overall impact. This year, one name stands out above the rest: Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche.

Makar has been a dominant force on the ice,leading all defensemen with 49 points (13 goals,36 assists) in 44 games. His versatility shines through in every situation—he tops the charts in power-play points (20) and is tied for the lead in short-handed goals (1). Averaging 25:40 of ice time per game, Makar has been instrumental in driving the Avalanche’s success this season.

His exceptional performance earned him the NHL’s First Star of the Month for October, where he racked up 19 points (4 goals, 15 assists) in just 11 games. This amazing start included a 13-game point streak, making him only the second defenseman in NHL history to achieve such a milestone, alongside the legendary Bobby Orr. Makar’s consistency is unmatched,as he has recorded at least one point in 30 of Colorado’s 43 games this season,including 16 multi-point performances.

“He’s so good, and he creates so much time and space for not only himself but his teammates,” said Devon Toews, makar’s defensive partner. “We just try to get him the puck and get him areas with time and space so that he can make plays and do what he does.”

Makar’s dominance hasn’t gone unnoticed. In a recent poll of NHL analysts, he received 76 voting points, including 13 first-place votes, cementing his status as the favorite for the Norris Trophy. Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, last year’s winner, trails in second place with 58 points, while Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets rounds out the top three with 47 points.

Beyond the accolades, Makar is on the brink of a personal milestone. With 99 career goals, he is just one shy of reaching the 100-goal mark. If he scores soon,he will become the sixth-fastest defenseman in NHL history to achieve this feat,joining an elite group that includes Hall of Famers Bobby Orr,Paul Coffey,Ray Bourque,and Denis potvin.

Despite the growing buzz around his achievements, Makar remains humble. “I don’t know if I’m close to anything right now,” he said. “I’m not somebody that just looks at that kind of stuff.I watch a lot of hockey,but I don’t look at stats and stuff like that. So for me, it’s just trying to live in the moment and enjoy the day to day.”

Makar’s journey to this point has been nothing short of extraordinary. A Norris Trophy finalist in each of the past four seasons, he won the award in 2021-22 and finished second in 2020-21. His ability to elevate his game in critical moments has made him a cornerstone of the Avalanche’s lineup and a fan favorite across the league.

As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Makar. Whether he’s quarterbacking the power play,shutting down opponents,or creating scoring opportunities,his impact on the ice is undeniable. With his combination of skill,consistency,and humility,Cale Makar is not just a contender for the Norris Trophy—he’s redefining what it means to be an elite defenseman in the NHL.

Cale Makar’s journey this season has been a masterclass in adaptability and growth.After a shaky 0-4-0 start, the Colorado Avalanche have found their rhythm, winning 12 of their last 17 games and climbing the Central Division standings. A significant part of this resurgence can be attributed to Makar’s ability to balance offensive flair with defensive duty, making him a cornerstone of the team’s success.

Makar’s evolution as a defenseman has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his offensive creativity,he has also made significant strides in his defensive game. Averaging 2:09 of short-handed ice time per game and ranking third in the NHL for total ice time, Makar has proven he can handle the rigors of both ends of the ice. His commitment to improving his defensive play has been a game-changer for the Avalanche.

“If he’s going to play that much, then you want to make sure you’re not just trading chances, and he’s really bought into that,” said Avalanche coach Jared Bednar. “You can tell there’s an added focus on his defending details and what he needs to do. He wants to be clear on it,and he wants to continue to improve it.”

reflecting on his own performance, Makar shared, “I feel like my game’s taken a ample overall increase from the last couple years; I think it dipped a little bit just in quality. This year,I kind of found it again defensively,and I’m trying to find it offensively too. my game, I feel pretty confident in it right now, and I feel like I’m in a better spot than I have been in the last couple years.”

makar’s impact has not gone unnoticed. In recent voting, he secured 76 points, including 13 first-place votes, cementing his status as one of the league’s elite defensemen. Other notable players in the rankings include Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks with 58 points, Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets with 47 points, and Josh Morrissey of the Winnipeg Jets with 32 points. Victor Hedman, Shea Theodore, Rasmus Dahlin, John Carlson, jakob Chychrun, Brock Faber, Evan bouchard, and Alex Pietrangelo also received recognition, highlighting the depth of talent across the NHL.

As the season progresses, Makar’s continued focus on refining his defensive skills while maintaining his offensive edge will be crucial for the Avalanche’s success. His ability to adapt and improve has not only solidified his place among the league’s best but also inspired his team to aim higher.

How Does Cale Makar Adapt His Game to Different Situations?

Makar’s versatility is one of his moast valuable assets. whether it’s power plays, penalty kills, or even-strength situations, he approaches each scenario with a tailored strategy. His ability to read the game and adjust his playstyle accordingly has made him a nightmare for opponents and a linchpin for the Avalanche.

On the power play, Makar’s offensive instincts shine.His ability to quarterback the play, create scoring opportunities, and unleash his lethal shot makes him a constant threat. Conversely, during penalty kills, his focus shifts to positioning, stick work, and disrupting the opposition’s rhythm. Even at even strength, Makar’s two-way game allows him to seamlessly transition between offense and defense, making him a complete player.

Makar’s adaptability is a testament to his hockey IQ and work ethic. As he continues to refine his game, the Avalanche will rely on him to lead their charge toward another deep playoff run. For now, the Norris Trophy seems to be his to lose, but in the unpredictable world of hockey, anything can happen. One thing is certain: Cale Makar is redefining what it means to be an elite defenseman in the NHL.

Cale Makar: The Rising Star of the NHL

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar is having a season for the ages. With 49 points in just 44 games, he’s not only leading all defensemen in scoring but also solidifying his place among the NHL’s elite. As he approaches the 100-goal milestone, Makar remains grounded, focusing on team success over personal accolades.

Consistency Through Preparation

When asked about his remarkable consistency this season, Makar emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork. “Honestly, it’s been about staying focused and trusting the process,” he said. “I’ve been lucky to play with an incredible group of guys here in Colorado. My teammates and coaches put me in positions to succeed, and I just try to make the most of every possibility.”

Makar’s ability to adapt to different game situations—whether on the power play, penalty kill, or even strength—has been a key factor in his success. “It comes down to preparation,” he explained. “We spend a lot of time studying film and understanding our opponents. On the power play, it’s about creating space and making swift decisions.On the penalty kill, it’s about being smart and aggressive when the opportunity arises.”

On the cusp of History

With 99 career goals, Makar is just one shy of joining an exclusive club of defensemen who have scored 100 goals, a list that includes legends like Bobby Orr and Ray Bourque. “It’s humbling, for sure,” Makar said. “Those are legends of the game, and to even be mentioned in the same conversation is an honor. But honestly, I try not to focus too much on milestones.I’m more concerned with helping the team win games. If the goals come, they come.”

Handling the Pressure

As the frontrunner for the Norris Trophy this season, Makar has faced immense pressure and expectations. Though, he remains unfazed. “I don’t really think about it too much,” he admitted. “Awards and recognition are nice, but they’re not why I play the game. I’m just focused on improving every day and helping the Avalanche compete for another Stanley Cup.”

Makar also credited his defensive partner, Devon Toews, and the rest of the team for his success. “The Norris Trophy is a team effort in a lot of ways,” he said. “Devon and the rest of the guys make my job a lot easier.”

The Importance of Chemistry

Toews recently praised Makar for his ability to create time and space for himself and his teammates. Makar echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of their chemistry on the blue line. “It’s huge,” he said. “Devon and I have developed a great understanding of each other’s game over the years. We communicate well, and we certainly know where the other is going to be on the ice. That trust allows us to take risks and make plays, knowing the other guy has your back.”

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, Makar remains focused on the ultimate goal: bringing another Stanley Cup to Colorado. “It’s always great to connect with fans and talk about the game,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s about what we do on the ice. We’re here to win, and that’s what drives me every day.”

With his combination of skill, humility, and dedication, Cale Makar is not just a standout player—he’s a role model for the next generation of hockey stars.

Cale Makar: The Drive Behind a Hockey superstar

When it comes to NHL defensemen, few names shine as brightly as Cale Makar. A four-time Norris trophy finalist and the 2021-22 winner, Makar has become synonymous with excellence on the ice. But what keeps him pushing the boundaries of his game year after year? In a recent interview, the Colorado Avalanche star shared his thoughts on his relentless pursuit of greatness.

The Love of the Game

For Makar,it all boils down to passion. “I think it’s just the love of the game,” he said.”I’m always looking for ways to get better,whether it’s refining my skating,improving my defensive positioning,or finding new ways to contribute offensively.” This dedication to constant improvement is what sets him apart in a league as competitive as the NHL. “if you’re not getting better, you’re falling behind,” he added.

Staying Focused for the Long Haul

As the season progresses, Makar’s mindset remains laser-focused. “It’s all about staying focused and taking it one game at a time,” he explained.”We’ve got a great group here in Colorado, and our goal is to be playing our best hockey when it matters most.” While the regular season is crucial, Makar and his team are building toward something bigger—a championship run.

A Legacy in the Making

Makar’s journey is far from over. With his combination of skill, determination, and humility, he continues to make history in the NHL. As the interview wrapped up, Makar expressed his gratitude: “Thanks so much. It’s been a pleasure.”

For fans of the Colorado Avalanche and hockey enthusiasts everywhere, Cale Makar is a name to watch.His relentless drive and love for the game ensure that his legacy will only grow stronger with time.

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How does Cale Makar’s focus on team success and continuous improvement contribute to his individual achievements and the overall success of the Colorado Avalanche?

P>As the season progresses, Cale Makar’s focus remains on team success and continuous improvement. “We’ve got a lot of hockey left to play,” he said. “The goal is to keep building momentum and be at our best when it matters most. For me, it’s about staying consistent, staying healthy, and contributing in any way I can.”

Makar’s journey is a testament to his dedication, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Weather he’s breaking records, shutting down opponents, or setting up his teammates, Makar’s impact on the ice is undeniable. As he continues to redefine what it means to be an elite defenseman in the NHL, one thing is clear: Cale Makar is not just a rising star—he’s already among the game’s greats.

What’s Next for Makar and the Avalanche?

With the Avalanche eyeing another deep playoff run, Makar’s role will be more critical then ever.His ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations has already proven invaluable, and his leadership on and off the ice will be key to the team’s success.As the Norris Trophy race heats up, Makar’s consistency and versatility will keep him at the forefront of the conversation.

For now, Makar remains focused on the present, taking it one game at a time. “We’ve got a special group here,” he said.“We’re all working toward the same goal, and that’s what makes this team so fun to be a part of. I’m just grateful for the chance to contribute and help this team chase another championship.”

As fans and analysts alike marvel at his achievements, Cale Makar continues to let his play do the talking. With his combination of skill, intelligence, and humility, he’s not just redefining the role of a defenseman—he’s inspiring the next generation of hockey players to dream big and work harder than ever.