Story perspectives

Dahlin Named Norris, Masterton Finalist Amid Buffalo Rise

5/8/2026

Summary

Dahlin Norris Finalist

Rasmus Dahlin was named a Norris Trophy finalist, joining Cale Makar and Zach Werenski.
He posted 74 points (19 goals, 55 assists) in 77 games, helping Buffalo achieve a 50-23-9 record, 109 points, its first division title since 2009-10 and playoff berth since 2010-11.
Dahlin also became a Masterton Trophy finalist after playing through his fiancée Carolina Matovac’s heart transplant, the loss of an unborn baby, and returning on Nov. 15.

Summary

Makar Joins Orr

Cale Makar joins Bobby Orr as only defensemen with six Norris shortlist spots in their first seven NHL seasons.
The Norris Trophy was first awarded in 1953-54 by James Norris’s four children.
The Hockey Writers Association votes after the regular season, each ranking five defensemen, while analysts note a bias against non-playoff defenders that hurts Zach Werenski.
Makar could become the first repeat Norris winner since Nicklas Lidström’s three-peat from 2005-06 through 2007-08.

History

Historical Context

After the Norris Trophy debuted in 1953-54, defenseman Bobby Orr reshaped the award by leading the NHL with 120 points in 1970 and capturing his first Norris-Hart double that season, the first defender ever to top scoring. His offensive breakthrough set a precedent that modern blueliners such as Rasmus Dahlin (74 points) and Cale Makar cite, prompting writers to reevaluate defensive-offensive value.

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Dahlin Norris Finalist

Rasmus Dahlin was named a Norris Trophy finalist, joining Cale Makar and Zach Werenski.
He posted 74 points (19 goals, 55 assists) in 77 games, helping Buffalo achieve a 50-23-9 record, 109 points, its first division title since 2009-10 and playoff berth since 2010-11.
Dahlin also became a Masterton Trophy finalist after playing through his fiancée Carolina Matovac’s heart transplant, the loss of an unborn baby, and returning on Nov. 15.

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