Colorado Avalanche star defenseman Cale Makar is in a position to win another Norris trophy. The NHL announced that he, along with Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres were nominated for the award Thursday.
Some could argue that Makar isn’t even worthy of nomination because he missed too many games. In 75/82 games, Makar had 20 goals and 59 assists. It was the third consecutive year in which he reached 20 goals.
Still, he adveraged more than one point per game for the amount that he did play. It’s not as if he missed 20 games.
Makar is good overall, as he can score and contribute offensively while also taking care of the defensive side of the game. It’s not that common to have a defenseman who is good at both sides of the ice. He can make plays without the puck, as well, helping guide defenders away.
Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar also touched on Makar’s nomination, pointing at all of the things his star defenseman does every given game.
The Avalanche had a Corsi For of 54.6% with Makar on the ice this year. Makar also boasted an xGF (expected goals for) of 55%. The Avs were the best offensive team in the NHL this year, especially evident by their goal count (302).
Makar averaged almost 25 minutes per game this past season, though he ranked seventh in the NHL among defensemen in that category. Two of the players ahead of him played in fewer games.
Makar still has a chance to claim some history. If he wins the Norris trophy this year, he could still technically have a chance of tying Bobby Orr’s consecutive total of eight.
Makar will go down as one of the best defensemen in NHL history, and perhaps even the best when it’s all said and done, especially if he continues to rack up his trophy case. Of course, the most important team trophy is the Stanley Cup, which could also further his case for the Hall of Fame, but these nominations and hopeful wins would go down as the bigger personal achievement.
Whether he wins the Norris trophy this year or not, his value to the team is never unnoticed, and the Avalanche are blessed to have him on their side.
Additionally, if he wins the Norris this year, it would be perfect timing for him as he is entering a contract year. Earning the Norris again could help his bid for even more money.
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