Cale Makar Claims Second Norris Trophy as NHL Fans Crown Him the Greatest
Colorado Avalanche superstar defenseman Cale Makar capped off an extraordinary 2024–25 NHL season by securing his second career Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the league’s top defenseman. The win came by a significant margin, with Makar collecting an overwhelming 176 first-place votes. He edged out Columbus Blue Jackets standout Zach Werenski and Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes, who received 13 and 2 first-place votes, respectively. The announcement was met with a flurry of reactions online, showcasing the admiration — and some critique — from NHL fans across social media.
Massive Applause from Fans: “GOAT MAKAR” Takes Over Twitter
As soon as the news broke, NHL Twitter lit up with celebratory messages and tributes for the Avalanche’s star defenseman. One fan enthusiastically declared, “GOAT MAKAR,” anointing him as the greatest of all time. Another fan chimed in with high praise, saying, “Makar should be getting the Norris every year. Best Dman in the game by a mile 🐐.” Comments like these echoed throughout the hockey world, with many fans applauding the NHL’s selection committee for getting it right this season.
“Most obvious choice ever. Well deserved,” another user wrote, summing up a common sentiment that Makar’s exceptional play throughout the regular season left little doubt about who should take home the league’s top defensive honor.
Not Everyone Impressed: Critics Use Award to Vent Frustrations
Of course, not all reactions were glowing. Some fans used the moment to question Makar’s performance — particularly in the playoffs — or even to poke fun at his on-ice decisions. One sarcastic tweet read, “Is this trophy for the defenseman who regularly turns over the puck on his own blue line, resulting in a breakaway and/or goal against?” Another fan voiced frustration with Colorado’s postseason exit, stating, “Congrats but would have rather you showed up in the playoffs. Even if you were average we get by Dallas. Unfortunately, you stunk it up.”
Still others found ways to link his success with fellow Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon. “Yeah yeah no MacKinnon no Norris,” quipped one post, hinting at a belief that Makar benefits from playing alongside elite teammates.
Despite the mixed reactions, the numbers speak volumes. Makar’s win wasn’t just a close call — it was a blowout victory, clearly validating his season-long dominance from the blue line.
Historic Season: Makar Becomes Fifth Defenseman with Multiple 90-Point Seasons
Cale Makar’s 2024–25 season wasn’t only about accolades. Statistically, he etched his name alongside some of the greatest defensemen in NHL history. With 30 goals and 62 assists, Makar finished the year with 92 points, marking the second time in his career he has surpassed the 90-point mark. Only four other defensemen in NHL history have accomplished that feat more than once: Paul Coffey (7 times), Bobby Orr (6), Ray Bourque (4), and Denis Potvin (3). Makar and Al MacInnis now share the distinction of achieving the milestone twice.
Last season, Makar recorded 21 goals and 69 assists — an impressive total in itself. To not only repeat but improve on those numbers this season confirms that Makar isn’t just a flash in the pan — he’s evolving into one of the best two-way players the game has seen in the modern era.
What’s Next for Makar? A 100-Point Season Could Be Within Reach
At only 26 years old, Cale Makar’s ceiling appears limitless. With two Norris Trophies under his belt and a pair of 90-point seasons, many believe it’s only a matter of time before he becomes the first defenseman in over three decades to break the 100-point barrier. His offensive instincts, speed, and elite playmaking ability make that milestone very possible.
Helping his cause is the offensive firepower that surrounds him in Colorado. Nathan MacKinnon remains one of the top forwards in the league, while Mikko Rantanen continues to be a scoring threat night in and night out. On the blue line, Makar is paired with Devon Toews, widely considered one of the league’s top shutdown defenders. That partnership allows Makar to roam more freely, joining the rush and creating scoring opportunities — all while having defensive coverage from a reliable partner.
With that structure and talent around him, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Makar flirt with — or even surpass — the century mark in points as early as next season. If he stays healthy and the Avalanche remain a competitive force in the Western Conference, the stars could align for Makar to hit 100 points, a milestone last reached by Brian Leetch in the 1991–92 season.
A Legacy in the Making
Cale Makar’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Since entering the league in 2019, he has quickly redefined what it means to be a modern defenseman. He blends speed, skill, and hockey IQ with a level of composure rarely seen at such a young age. His trophy case already includes a Calder Trophy (rookie of the year), a Norris Trophy (now two), and a Conn Smythe Trophy (Stanley Cup playoff MVP), as well as a Stanley Cup title with the Avalanche in 2022.
This year’s Norris Trophy win further solidifies Makar’s place among the NHL’s elite. If he continues on this trajectory, conversations comparing him to legendary defensemen like Orr, Coffey, and Bourque won’t just be fan-driven hype — they’ll be statistically and historically valid.
In a league full of talent and evolving strategies, Makar’s unique skill set continues to separate him from the pack. Whether you love him or question some of his plays, it’s impossible to ignore the impact he’s made. The Norris Trophy voters certainly didn’t — and the fans, for better or worse, have made their voices heard.
So while critics may nitpick playoff performances or turnovers, the numbers, the accolades, and the highlight reels all point to one undeniable truth: Cale Makar is in the process of building a Hall of Fame legacy. And at just 26, the best may still be yet to come.
