Cale Makar is one of the bigger favorites when it comes to individual awards for the upcoming season. But defending Norris winner, Quinn Hughes and Adam Fox, who also won this award, are not far off. And for those who may be looking for some value, you’re in luck, because there are a handful of defencemen who we think may have a shot.
Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche (+250)
Cale Makar didn’t have the best of seasons but managed to finish in the top three in voting, in fact he’s been a finalist in four straight years. It’s why his odds are so short. Typically this award goes to the rearguard who finishes with the most points and Makar has been first or second in points over the last three years. Another season like that, he’ll be in the final three once again.
Quinn Hughes, Vancouver Canucks (+650)
Quinn Hughes led all defensemen with 92 points en route to his first Norris Trophy. The Canucks captain had the most even-strength points among blue-liners with 54 and second with 38 power-play points. Hughes had 75 assists joining Ray Bourque, Bobby Orr, and Paul Coffey as the only d-men with three straight 60-plus-assist seasons. Duplicate last season, and he could become the first repeat winner since 2007-2008 (Niklas Lidstrom).
Evan Bouchard, Edmonton Oilers (+800)
Evan Bouchard scored 82 points in 81 games last season then added another 32 points in 25 playoff games. He plays on the most lethal powerplay in the league and will continue to rack up the points playing with McDavid and Draisaitl. Bouchard also logged a tonne of ice-time, averaging 23 minutes a game. He could be a sneaky pick, especially if he can hit the 85-90 point mark.
Miro Heiskanen, Dallas Stars (+1200)
Miro Heiskanen is ready for that breakout season. While he only registered 54 points in 71 games, he’s expected to bounce back in a big way. The Stars have some great young pieces up front, meaning Heiskanen will log lots of power play time as the quarterback. Dallas is considered one of the best offensive teams and at this price, he would be worth a wager.
2024/2025 Norris Trophy Odds
Cale Makar +250
Quinn Hughes +650
Adam Fox +700
Evan Bouchard +800
Miro Heiskanen +1200
Roman Josi +1200
Charlie McAvoy +1600
Rasmus Dahlin +1800
Victor Hedman +2000
Noah Dobson +2200
Dougie Hamilton +3300
Luke Hughes +3300
Josh Morrissey +4000
Brock Faber +4000