Buffalo, N.Y. (WGR Sports Radio 550) - Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin finished a distant third in voting for the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman in 2026.
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski earned the majority of the first-place votes (113), securing his first Norris Trophy honor of his career. He finished second to Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar just last year in Norris Trophy voting.
Dahlin was able to secure 13 first-place votes in this year's voting process.
Overall, the Blue Jackets' all-time points leader had 1,589 voting points, while Makar had 1,191 points and Dahlin ended up with 657.
Werenski was second in scoring amongst defensemen this past season, finishing with 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points. Makar had 20 goals and 59 assists for 79 points.
Dahlin was sixth in defensive scoring with 19 goals and 55 assists for 74 points.
It was refreshing to see the top-three finalists being defensemen who are excellent in both ends of the ice. Often this trophy goes to the defenseman who finishes the season with the most points.
The NHL points leader from the blue line, Evan Bouchard (Edmonton Oilers), was fourth in Norris voting, followed by another strong two-way defenseman in Moritz Seider (Detroit Red Wings). Lane Hutson (Montreal Canadiens) was three points back of Seider in voting.
Dahlin is also a finalist for the Masterton Trophy this year, awarded annually to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.
Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski earned the honor as the NHL's Defenseman of the Year
Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski earned the honor as the NHL's Defenseman of the Year
