The James Norris Memorial Trophy
annually awarded to the top "defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position"
Odd how someone here seemed to not know that Subban, Karlsson and Hedman had won it. Even Chara won it, long after the islanders dumped him.
Sorry, but as everyone has admitted, if 74 wasn't scoring goals he never would be considered for the award. Yet in the description of the award scoring would seem to not matter.
Is he good for this team? Yes. Is he a great defenseman? No. I'd be fine with him if was making $7M at the most. As it is, he's overpaid and it's hurting this team. It was hurting the team before the salary cap got frozen for at least three years, and I'd be amazed if it doesn't end up being four as its directly tied to league income.
Unfortunately the Norris is more about offense than defence. There have been plenty of unworthy winners of the trophy. Even when Langway won it in back to back seasons was he the best all around defenseman. I don't believe he was. Even though he was a beast in the defensive zone.
Over the years several great defencemen never won the award but probably should have. Guys that come to mind are Scott Stevens, Mark Howe and Brad Park. Maybe even Shea Weber should have won one.
We had a stretch where Lidstrom pretty much won every year and he deserved it. He was the best 2 way dman in the NHL for a long time.
I think the NHL has a player like that in today's game. That guy would be Victor Hedman. He is the best 2 way defenseman by a pretty good margin. I know he has won a Norris but I think he should have atleast 3 including last season. I don't think Josi should have won it. And I think Hedman has to be one of the favorites again this year. He would be my vote.
But as long they continue to give the trophy to offensive defencemen Carlson will remain a Norris candidate. He will likely be top 5 in votes.
I for one don't think he will win the Norris this year or any year. I feel last season was his best chance. If he couldn't win it after that season I don't think he ever will.
He has a great shot, he is a very good passer, he can join the rush. He plays on the PP and pk. He is a very good player. But he is too inconsistent in the defensive zone and his decision making.
He fits in well on this team. Alot has to do with the talent around him. That was alot of the criticism on Carlson. His numbers are inflated because of the players he plays with. And I would agree with that.
Just curious who didn't know those guys won the Norris.
