Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar was voted the NHL’s best blue liner in a poll released by the NHLPA. Makar, as voted by his peers, got a wide margin over the runner-up, Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes.
Makar landed 71.78% of the votes with Hughes nabbing 7.44%. Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman grabbed 5.74%. Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators and Adam Fox of the New York Rangers rounded out the top five.
The 9th defenceman in NHL history to post a 30-goal season – all while assembling a career-high point campaign – who wouldn’t want to add some Cale to their blue line? 🥬 #NHLPAPlayerPoll pic.twitter.com/HSWcLaPC35
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) April 15, 2025
It’s unsurprising that Cale Makar got the top this season. Makar became the ninth defenseman in league history to score 30 goals in a season while racking up 92 points. It’s too bad Makar couldn’t reach 100 points as throughout would have put him among truly elite company in NHL history.
Still, Makar’s accomplishments are no less impressive. He was a consistent force for the Avalanche this season, especially with the unusually high number of injuries befalling the team, especially early in the season.
Makar, and teammate Nathan MacKinnon, were able to maintain a high level of play, showing their consistency and commitment to the game by leading the team during the worst stretches of the season.
Hopefully, Makar can follow up his terrific season with a 100-point campaign next year.
Makar voted as NHL’s second-best skater
In the same series of player polls by the NHLPA, Cale Makar came in second place as the league’s best overall skater.
The top honor went to Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, whose skating skills are nothing short of impressive. McDavid accrued 66.41% of the votes with Makar grabbing 11.41%. Makar’s teammate, Nathan MacKinnon, came in third with 8.91%.
Quinn Hughes and New Jersey Devils forward Jesper Bratt rounded out the top five.
You can only try to keep up 💨
— NHLPA (@NHLPA) April 15, 2025
The @EdmontonOilers captain’s not-so-secret weapon is confirmed by the players, as Connor McDavid takes the best skater category. #NHLPAPlayerPoll pic.twitter.com/x9JuSnTjEl
When watching Makar and MacKinnon play all season long, it’s no surprise the duo would make the top three in this category. Makar’s effortless skating allows him to be a solid two-way defenseman, easily transitioning from the defensive side of the game to jumping into rushes.
Makar also leads rushes into opposing zones, while being able to get back into his own zone much quicker than the average blue liner. Granted, we’ve seen Makar get caught pinching every so often, but defense partner Devon Toews has shown to be an elite defensive rearguard, making up for Makar’s risks.
Overall, Makar’s game seems to be rounding into shape just now, if that is possible. His previous Norris Trophy season was just the beginning as we’re just now beginning to see what peak Cale Makar can truly do.
At his current pace, Makar has the possibility of becoming one, if not, the best defenseman in league history. I’ve seen some great ones play during my lifetime, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone quite like Cale Makar.