Cale Makar's Lead Threatened:: While still a top contender, Makar's lead isn't as secure as some might think due to strong performances from other defensemen.
Offensive vs. Defensive Prowess:: Some contenders excel offensively (e.g., Quinn Hughes, Evan Bouchard), while others shine defensively (e.g., Moritz Seider), creating a diverse competition.
Werenski's All-Around Impact:: Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets stands out with his valuable contributions in all situations, potentially making him a Hart Trophy contender as well.
Why This Matters:: The Norris Trophy recognizes the NHL's best defenseman, highlighting the importance of both offensive and defensive capabilities in a player's overall impact on their team.
Cale Makar has been a dominant force in recent years, but the 2025-26 season sees a tighter race for the Norris Trophy. Analytics suggest that while Makar leads with a +16.0 Net Rating, players like Moritz Seider (+15.7) are close behind.
Cale Makar (Colorado Avalanche): Makar's offensive rating (+11.6) carries much of his weight, complemented by a decent defensive rating (+4.5).
Moritz Seider (Detroit Red Wings): Seider's strength lies in his defensive game (+9.4), the highest among top defensemen, with a +6.3 offensive rating.
Quinn Hughes (Minnesota Wild): Hughes demonstrates strong offensive capabilities (+14.2) but lags defensively (-0.9).
Evan Bouchard (Edmonton Oilers): Similar to Hughes, Bouchard boasts a high offensive rating (+16.0) but struggles defensively (-3.0).
Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets): Werenski showcases a balanced game with a +13.6 offensive rating and a +1.4 defensive rating.
Werenski's impressive season has propelled the Blue Jackets, and he's even being discussed as a potential Hart Trophy candidate. The trade to the Wild seems to have reinvigorated Hughes, who is now playing at a high level. Ultimately, Makar's consistency at both ends of the ice makes him the favorite, but any slip-up could change the outcome.
Q: Who is the current front-runner for the Norris Trophy?
As of late February 2026, Cale Makar is still considered a front-runner, but faces strong competition.
Q: Which player has the best defensive rating among the top contenders?
Moritz Seider of the Detroit Red Wings has the highest defensive rating.
Q: Is there any dark horse in the Norris Trophy race?
Zach Werenski's strong two-way play places him as one to watch, potentially even in the Hart Trophy conversation.
The Norris Trophy race is far from decided, with multiple players making compelling cases.
Offensive contributions alone aren't enough; defensive prowess is equally crucial.
Keep an eye on players like Werenski and Hughes, who could challenge Makar's reign.
Do you think Makar will hold on to win the Norris Trophy, or will another defenseman dethrone him? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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