Cale Makar joins Bobby Orr in elite company with another Norris nomination
It's the sixth time in his first seven years that Cale Makar has been a top-3 finalist; only the legendary Bobby Orr also pulled that off
Watch: Why haven't the Avs gotten a deal done with Cale Makar? | Stokley and Evans with Mark Schlereth | 1 min
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar made history on Thursday with another Norris Trophy nomination.
Makar is a finalist for the award, given to the NHL’s best defenseman.
It’s the sixth time in his first seven years that Makar has made the top-3. Only the legendary Bobby Orr also pulled that off.
The James Norris Memorial Trophy finalists are in! 🏆 #NHLAwards
The trophy is presented annually to the defenseman who demonstrates the greatest all-around ability at the position. pic.twitter.com/krWLsUybFh
— NHL (@NHL) May 7, 2026
Cale Makar joins Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets as the finalists.
It was another brilliant year for the Avs superstar defenseman, posting 20 goals and 59 assists, good for 79 points. That was third in the NHL amongst defenseman and Makar scored at least 20 goals for the fourth time in five seasons.
Makar has also won the Norris Trophy twice, including last year. He’s looking to become just the 10th ever player to earn the Norris three times in his career.
And at only 27-years-old it feels like a near certainty Makar will have more Norris nominations and wins in his future. While Werenski is a huge favorite to take the honor this season, Makar certainly has nothing to hang his head about.
Not only did the Avalanche win the Presidents’ Trophy during the regular season, but they’re 6-0 in the playoffs thus far and have a 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Wild in the second-round.
The winners will be announced next month at NHL Honors. And even if Cale Makar doesn’t earn it, another Stanley Cup would be an even better prize.
Related
Cale Makar voted NHL’s best defenseman a fifth year in a row
Avalanche name new head coach for AHL affiliate Eagles
Five most important Avalanche games during the 2026-27 season
NHL drops schedule for 2026-27 Avalanche season
First Avalanche game of 2026-27 season announced, it’s in September
Avs make three more depth signings, including forward with 477 NHL games
Comments
1 Comments
Anyone checked the plus minus? Points and goals are about the same but Werenski is just +7, Makar is +32. Sure Makar is on a better team but that should not be ignored.