Cale Makar has been named the NHL’s defenceman of the year for the second time in his career.
The Colorado Avalanche blueliner claimed the James Norris Trophy for the 2024-25 season after also receiving the award in 2022.
Makar was the overwhelming choice of Professional Hockey Writers Association voters, earning 176 of 191 first-place votes.
The 26-year-old from Calgary beat out runner-up Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets and finalist Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks.
Makar was the fifth defenceman all-time to post back-to-back 90-point seasons and the first since Paul Coffey and Al MacInnis in 1989-90 and 1990-91.
Makar was golfing when he was surprised by friends and family, including his wife and parents, with the trophy.
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The Montreal Canadiens defenceman takes home the NHL’s top rookie honour — getting a message of congratulations from the legendary goaltender who was the last player from his team to take home the award.
