The Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top defenseman, features a competitive field for the 2024-2025 season. Cale Makar leads the odds at +250, followed closely by Adam Fox and Quinn Hughes, both at +600. Evan Bouchard is also a strong contender at +800, while Miro Heiskanen comes in at +1100. Other notable candidates include Roman Josi (+1200), Noah Dobson (+1600), and a group of players at +2000, including Victor Hedman, Josh Morrissey, and Rasmus Dahlin. Each player brings unique strengths to the ice, making the race for the Norris Trophy particularly intriguing this year.
My Best Bet: Rasmus Dahlin +2000
When selecting a winner for the James Norris Trophy, the most important factor will be if the player is a big offensive contributor just as much as he is on defense. I know, it’s weird, but that is how it goes and why Cale Makar is the favorite here. Dahlin was drafted No. 1 overall in 2018 because of his offensive ability as a defenseman, and was a popular pick last season after registering 73 points in 78 games in 2022-23. He ultimately failed to live up to expectations, as did the Sabres as a whole, but perhaps we were a year early on this.
I expect Buffalo to bounce back at least a bit, considering the injuries to Tage Thompson and Jack Quinn last season that derailed the offense. Improved team production will help Dahlin here, and if the Sabres can play some respectable hockey, Dahlin will be a large reason why. 20/1 seems like good value for a guy that can be a serious offensive contributor and reach his potential.