2026 Norris Memorial Trophy Odds – Who is the NHL’s Top Defenseman?

The James Norris Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the defenseman in the NHL who demonstrates “the greatest all-round ability in his position” during the regular season. Wikipedia+2NHL Records+2
For bettors, this futures market hinges on:
• Elite two-way performance from the blue line
• Strong offensive output (goals, assists, power-play contribution) combined with defensive reliability
• Playing for a team with strong defensive metrics and success
• Narrative momentum: breakout seasons, defenseman stepping into star role, or marked team improvement

Recent Winner & Context

The most recent winner (2024-25) was Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, marking his second Norris Trophy. Reuters+1
Heading into the 2025-26 season and the 2026 award market, the focus shifts toward defensemen who can lead in both offense and defense, play heavy minutes, deliver high impact at 5-on-5 and power play, and anchor teams with strong defensive identities.

Contenders to Watch

🔵 Cale Makar – Colorado Avalanche
• Already a two-time winner and among the early favorites for 2026
• Drives offense from the blue line while also responsible for 5-on-5 impact
• Team context: Avalanche remain elite defensively, which bolsters his case

🟡 Victor Hedman – Tampa Bay Lightning
• Veteran defenseman with high upside if the Lightning improve their team standings and defensive numbers
• Strong value if he resurges to top form

🟢 Miro Heiskanen – Dallas Stars
• Young two-way star projected to take on increased minutes and role
• If Dallas climbs the standings and his counting stats rise, he may break into the Norris conversation

🟣 Quinn Hughes – Vancouver Canucks
• Offense-heavy defenseman with great assist numbers; if Vancouver improves defensively, his profile strengthens
• Fingers on value odds if his dual impact becomes more visible

🔴 Evan Bouchard – Edmonton Oilers
• High offensive upside from the blue line; still growing defensively
• If Edmonton pushes higher and his role expands, he becomes a sleeper contender

Key Factors to Consider

• Two-Way Impact: Winning the Norris isn’t just about offense — though offense helps. Elite defensemen impact puck possession, transition play, and defensive reliability. Mile High Hockey+1
• Team Defensive Success: Top defensemen often anchor teams with strong goals-against metrics, penalty kill performance, and possession dominance.
• Offensive Output & Ice Time: High minutes, power-play quarterback role, combined points from the blueline drive market perception.
• Narrative & Breakouts: Younger defensemen taking a big step, veterans re-asserting dominance, or defensemen leading major team turnarounds often grab attention.
• Consistency & Attention: Sustained performance across the season is essential; late-season surges help momentum but the full-season body of work counts.

Quick Summary

Event: NHL 2025-26 — James Norris Memorial Trophy (Best Defenseman)
Most Recent Winner: Cale Makar
Betting Focus: Two-way elite defenseman, team defensive success, high offensive contribution, standout ice-time and role
Monitoring Sources: NHL defenseman stats, ice time & special teams metrics, expansion of role, team defensive rank