Elliotte Friedman makes it clear on Hughes and the Norris Trophy

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Luc Leblanc
April 9, 2024 (1:33 PM)

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Canucks captain Quinn Hughes has elevated his game to another level in 2023-24, currently tied for 16th in the entire NHL in scoring alongside Sidney Crosby with 86 points. The mark leads all defensemen and is two points ahead of Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar. Despite the close race, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman has made it clear who he believes should be awarded the Norris Trophy as the league's best rearguard:

Hughes is number 1 on my Norris list.

Being one of the leading offensive catalysts on a contending team is no small feat for a defenseman. Hughes has set career highs in most offensive categories, such as goals, assists, points, power-play points, shots on goal, plus-minus rating and shooting percentage. He ranks third in team scoring behind J.T. Miller (100) and Elias Pettersson (87).

Edmonton's Evan Bouchard (79) and Nashville's Roman Josi (78) closely follow Makar and Hughes. The last handful of regular season games could prove to be the difference maker in this tight race, which Makar has already won before while Hughes has not, and the Canucks captain will look to capitalize on a fantastic statistical season by capturing what would be his first career Norris Trophy.