Simply said, the Rangers didn't have a Norris Trophy defenseman. The Norris now seems to go to the highest scoring defenseman and thus Green will get the damned thing even though Chara is the Scotty Hockey choice as the best all-around defender. Michal Rozsival led the Blueshirt bunch with 30 points in 76 games. Paul Mara showed up every game - when he wasn't losing his mind going after Patrick Kaleta - and he was the most solid all-around presence of the seven 'regulars' (can't forget Kalinin). He rarely made a gaffe with the puck, he was physical and he ended up the only positive defender on the team. While Marek Malik proved that plus/minus isn't the be-all-end-all stat for defensemen, Mara coming out clean was an impressive achievement - especially given as his game has faded since being paired with former teammate Derek Morris.Dan Girardi and Marc Staal each have had some stellar performances since they became the top pairing upon being united by Tortorella. Unfortunately that was too little too late as both had struggled heavily trying to carry their defensively-incompetent partners, Redden and Rozy respectively. Perhaps next season and beyond, once they add Bobby, Del Zotto and the Hobey Baker blueliner, the Rangers may indeed produce another Norris winner.
The Norris Trophy: Celebrating Excellence in NHL Defense
The James Norris Memorial Trophy, more commonly known as the Norris Trophy, is one of the most prestigious awards in the National Hockey League (NHL). Named after James E. Norris, the former owner of the Detroit Red Wings, this award has been honoring the league's top defenseman since its inception in 1953. In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and FAQs about the Norris Trophy.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Norris Trophy is awarded annually to the NHL defenseman who demonstrates exceptional skills in the position. These skills encompass not only defensive play but also offensive contributions and overall performance. The award recognizes the player's ability to control the game from the blue line, whether through defensive shutdowns, scoring goals, or setting up plays.
The Early Years
The history of the Norris Trophy can be traced back to the 1952-53 season when the NHL decided to introduce an award for the league's top defenseman. The inaugural winner was Doug Harvey, a legendary figure in the history of the Montreal Canadiens. Harvey set the standard for excellence in defensive play and became one of the most decorated defensemen in the league's history.
Criteria for Winning the Norris Trophy
The criteria for winning the Norris Trophy have evolved over the years, reflecting changes in the game's style and the role of defensemen. Today, voters consider various factors when selecting the winner:
Defensive Prowess: A defenseman's ability to excel in traditional defensive roles, such as shot-blocking, body-checking, and breaking up opposing plays, remains fundamental.
Offensive Contributions: Scoring plays a significant role. Defensemen who contribute offensively, whether through goals or assists, often gain an edge in the voting.
Ice Time: The amount of ice time a defenseman logs during games is an important consideration. Players who can handle heavy minutes and maintain their performance are highly regarded.
Leadership: Leadership qualities, such as captaincy and the ability to motivate teammates, can enhance a player's chances of winning.
Impact on Team Success: Defensemen who elevate their teams' performances are more likely to be recognized. This includes helping their team make the playoffs or go deep into the postseason.
Notable Winners
Over the years, numerous legendary defensemen have received the Norris Trophy, solidifying their place in hockey history:
Bobby Orr: Orr, a Boston Bruins legend, won the Norris Trophy a record eight consecutive times from 1968 to 1975. His offensive prowess and ability to change the game from the blue line revolutionized the position.
Nicklas Lidström: The Detroit Red Wings' Lidström is widely considered one of the greatest defensemen of all time. He won the Norris Trophy seven times during his illustrious career.
Ray Bourque: Another Bruins icon, Bourque won the Norris Trophy five times and was known for his remarkable two-way play.
Denis Potvin: Potvin, the former captain of the New York Islanders, captured the award three times and played a pivotal role in his team's championship success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are the winners of the Norris Trophy determined?
The winner of the Norris Trophy is selected through a vote. Members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association (PHWA) are eligible to vote, and they submit their choices at the end of the regular season.
Can a forward or goaltender win the Norris Trophy?
No, the Norris Trophy is specifically awarded to defensemen. Forwards have their own awards, such as the Hart Trophy for the league's most valuable player, and goaltenders have the Vezina Trophy for the best goaltender.
Has a rookie ever won the Norris Trophy?
While it's rare, a rookie defenseman has won the award. Bobby Orr accomplished this feat during the 1966-67 season, marking a historic moment in NHL history.
What is the significance of winning the Norris Trophy?
Winning the Norris Trophy is a tremendous honor and a recognition of a player's excellence in the position. It often solidifies a defenseman's legacy and places them among the all-time greats.
Who are some recent winners of the Norris Trophy?
Recent winners include players like Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning, who won the award in 2020, and Adam Fox of the New York Rangers, who took home the trophy in 2021.
The Norris Trophy stands as a testament to the skill, dedication, and impact of NHL defensemen. It celebrates those who excel in one of the most demanding positions in hockey, and its list of winners includes some of the sport's true legends. As the NHL continues to evolve, the Norris Trophy will remain a symbol of excellence on the blue line and a coveted honor for defensemen striving to make their mark on the game.
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