Pucks of a Feather Midseason Awards Ballot: Norris Trophy
By Jason Byun
Dec 27, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Hampus Lindholm (47) against the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena. The Coyotes defeated the Ducks 2-1 in an overtime shootout. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The NHL All-Star Weekend has concluded, with Team Toews topping Team Foligno 17-12 in a record-setting All-Star Game. The teams scored 29 goals, setting a record for the All-Star Game. Team Toews’ 17 goals also set a record for most goals by a single team. John Tavares netted four goals (a “pants trick” to many), matching a feat done only five other times (most recently by Dany Heatley in 2003).
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We’ve released our midseason NHL Awards ballots recently, with three Nashville Predators taking the top spot in the Calder Trophy (Rookie of the Year), Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year), and Vezina Trophy (Goalie of the Year). Now, we continue with the James Norris Memorial Trophy, awarded to the league’s best defenseman. There are so many different ways people value defensemen, which is why this award tends to stir up conversation.
Again, as always, I do not hold an official ballot. These are only my thoughts from the season, from October 8th until January 21st. Between now and April 11th, the results are subject to change. Also, these results are just my personal opinion. I will put out a disclaimer and warning right now: I may value different things from defensemen. Just as with any ballot, someone will get left off.
Last season, Duncan Keith won the award with a 55 assist, 61 point campaign. His point total was second only to Erik Karlsson, while the assists led all defensemen and was sixth in the entire NHL. He was also a +22. He won the award in 2010 as well.
The Norris Trophy ballot has five spots. This ballot will also name five candidates, plus one honorable mention. Let’s begin with the honorable mention.
Next: Honorable Mention: A Familiar Name