Colorado Avalanche star defenseman Cale Makar recently opened up about being named the NHL’s top defenseman in a recent NHLPA post.
In a sit-down interview with FanSided’s NHL Director Steph Driver posted on April 21, the presumptive Norris Trophy winner got real about what it means to him to get recognition from his peers around the league.
Makar stated:
"Being recognized by your peers is definitely very special, but at the same time being, recognized by, people of media that watch all you do is special, too."
The comments underscore Makar’s humble nature amid widespread accolades regarding his on-ice performance. Makar became the ninth defenseman in league history to score 30 goals in a season, while racking up 92 points.
Cale Makar doubled down on his feelings, stating:
"Honored to be represented at the top by a lot of other guys in the league. That’s for sure."
The Colorado Avalanche blue liner’s feelings highlight how meaningful it is to get recognition from the foes he faces on the ice. It’s one thing to get pats on the back from the media and fans. But it’s an entirely different ballgame when it’s fellow NHLers who acknowledge his talents on this ice.
Check out the full interview here:
Check out this awesome interview between @Avalanche superstar Cale Makar and Fansided NHL Director Steph Driver pic.twitter.com/M0HkE80n7u
— Nestor Quixtan (@NestorQuixtan) April 21, 2025
Makar is on track to win his second Norris Trophy is season. He’s been a finalist in each of the last four seasons, capturing his first one in 2021-22.
Makar leading Norris Trophy race at NHL.com
A writer’s poll conducted by NHL.com looked into early returns regarding Norris Trophy voting. The panel overwhelmingly chose Cale Makar as this season’s best defenseman.
Makar received 14 of 16 first-place votes among writers, with Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets getting one first-place vote. Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes got the other first-place vote.
Cale Makar topped the NHL.com poll with 78 points, giving him a decided edge over the other finalists for the Norris Trophy.
Here’s a look at the final voting:
- Cale Makar, 78 points (14 first-place votes)
- Zach Werenski 59 points (one first-place vote)
- Quinn Hughes 48 points (one first-place vote)
Last season, Hughes took home his first Norris Trophy with Makar being among the finalists yet another season.
Makar is on track to win his second Norris Trophy as he’s the first blue liner to have back-to-back 90-point seasons since Paul Coffey (1989-90/1990-91) and Al MacInnis (1989-90/1990-91) last achieved the feat.
The Norris Trophy finalists will be announced later on during the Stanley Cup playoffs, with the official winner revealed ahead of the NHL’s Awards ceremony following the Stanley Cup Final.
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