Cale Makar clinched the Norris Trophy there again in a truly special off-ice moment
Image Via Twitter (A surprising moment turned unforgettable for Colorado Avalanche's Cale Makar)
Most NHL stars get ready to gather and attend their award ceremonies as if they are scheduled well in advance. Makar's latest award came in the least considered time and circumstance, right in the middle of leisure golf.
The 26-year-old defenseman was coming home, full of expectations, and stumbled upon all his loved ones, along with the Norris Trophy. It was so unscripted: a reflection of Makar's humble nature and his character as an on-ice genius.
An extraordinary campaign for
Cale Makar
secures the honor for his third Norris Trophy triumph
The 2024–25 NHL season of Cale Makar will go down in history as an exceptional one. Recording a mind-boggling 92 points consisting of 30 goals and 62 assists throughout 80 games, Makar not only did Makar surpassed his records, but he also carved his name into the annals of league history.
Makar, who scored 30-or-more goals in one NHL season, became only the ninth defenseman to do so, the first to accomplish that feat since Mike Green in 2008–09 when he scored 31 goals.
Makar went beyond just stats and truly dominated the special teams. His career-highs of 12 power-play goals and two short-handed goals showcased his versatility. His relentless spirit never dwindled; with over 25 minutes of ice time per game, he remained one of the core assets throughout Colorado's campaign.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Free P2,000 GCash eGift
UnionBank Credit Card
Apply Now
Undo
Though the Avalanche's run for the Stanley Cup was cut short in the first round by the Dallas Stars, Makar's influence was felt far and wide.
This Norris came to Makar, but it was no accident. He had already taken the honor back in 2021–22, being one of the favorites in the following seasons. The voting results showed the story: 1,861 points and an astounding 176 first-place votes, more than twice the amount given to finalists Zach Werenski and Quinn Hughes.
For Makar, it wasn't merely personal glory. He gave credit to his teammates, family, and friends for their unwavering support. While the moment was somehow unexpected, it was a celebration of the journey behind that very achievement.
Also Read: 'Honored to represent my roots': Cale Makar on representing Team Canada in 4 Nations Face-Off
Cale Makar's second Norris Trophy was not solely a career achievement, but the celebration of resilience, excellence, and joy arising from something improbable being realized. The stronger his season became and the stronger those backing him were, the more Makar's definition grew as one of the elite defensemen the NHL had produced: on the ice and sometimes even off the ice.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
27 minutes ago
- Time of India
NHL Trade Rumors: Teams eye Mika Zibanejad as Rangers weigh surprise trade option
NHL Trade Rumors: Teams eye Mika Zibanejad as Rangers weigh surprise trade option (Image via Getty) David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period has brought a huge update regarding Mika Zibanejad. Despite Zibanejad having a no-move clause in his deal, Pagnotta states some teams might still attempt to acquire him. The New York Rangers would have to get Mika Zibanejad's permission prior to any trade. He has complete authority wherever he goes. But following another playoff defeat, some think changes might ensue. Pagnotta describes this as the potential surprise of the offseason. Mika Zibanejad's playoff performance and a contract could spark big offseason decision Mika Zibanejad is among the top performers for the New York Rangers since he arrived with them in 2016. He is a center who scores frequently. He also assists his teammates by providing assists. In the regular season, he is extremely consistent. But in the 2024 playoffs, he did not score enough. People were disappointed, and most pundits stated that top players should deliver in big games. Mika Zibanejad's deal is big and goes several more years. It also has a no-move clause. That is, he cannot be traded unless he is willing to be. But from Pagnotta, teams can still call the Rangers and inquire. If the Rangers need to clear some salary cap room, they can contact Mika Zibanejad and see if he would consider moving. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Clean Warehouses = Safe Workplaces SearchMore Learn More Undo That does not guarantee a trade will occur. But it indicates the Rangers are considering making some difficult choices. They need space in the budget to acquire young players like Alexis Lafreniere and to create improved depth in the lineup. Also Read: Rangers On Verge Of Trading Chris Kreider To Ducks In Stunning Cap-Cut Move Amid Core Roster Shift Other high-profile players like Chris Kreider in New York could also be in trade talks Mika Zibanejad is not the only big name in New York whose future is uncertain. Chris Kreider is another elite player who has a long contract. He has played for the Rangers for more than 10 years and is extremely loyal to them. But if the Rangers seek a new face, he could also be asked about a potential trade. Kaapo Kakko is another name to consider. He is still young and has not scored too many goals. His name comes up when trade rumors begin. He may be included in a trade if the Rangers want to make some new additions. Teams in need of power centers, such as the Boston Bruins or Colorado Avalanche, may be calling on Zibanejad. Despite a no-trade clause some trades occur if the player happens to agree. This is one story that will be worth following throughout the coming weeks.
Time of India
35 minutes ago
- Time of India
NHL MVP Showdown: Nikita Kucherov, Leon Draisaitl, and Connor Hellebuyck clash for 2025 Hart Trophy ahead of Game 4
Photo by Andy Devlin/NHLI via Getty Images Just before Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final gets underway on Thursday night, the NHL will hand out one of its biggest individual honors—the Hart Trophy for league MVP. And this year's shortlist tells the story of a season packed with dominance, consistency, and standout performances from three very different players: Tampa Bay Lightning winger Nikita Kucherov, Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl, and Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck. All three have a case. Only one gets the trophy. Nikita Kucherov, Leon Draisaitl, and Connor Hellebuyck headline 2025 NHL Hart Trophy race as MVP winner to be revealed before Game 4 This year's Hart Trophy finalists don't fit a single mold—and that's what makes the race so compelling. You've got a scoring machine, a two-way force, and a goalie who flat-out stole games all season long. Let's start with Connor Hellebuyck . The Jets goaltender didn't just have a good year—he had one for the history books. He was the backbone of a Winnipeg team that won the Presidents' Trophy for the best regular season record and also locked up the William Jennings Trophy for the fewest goals allowed. Hellebuyck is already a near-lock to win his third Vezina Trophy as the league's top goaltender, and now he's got a shot at something far rarer. Only five goaltenders have managed to win the Vezina and Hart in the same season. The last to do it was Carey Price back in 2015. Before him? Jose Theodore in 2002. Dominik Hasek pulled it off twice in the late '90s. Jacques Plante did it in '62. That's the kind of company Hellebuyck would be joining if his name is called Thursday night. Then there's Nikita Kucherov . Tampa Bay's winger led the entire league in points with 122, earning him the Art Ross Trophy for the second time in his career. His peers also voted him the most outstanding player, handing him the Ted Lindsay Award. Kucherov's already got a Hart Trophy on his shelf from 2019. Another one would only add to his legacy. Leon Draisaitl rounds out the list, and he's been nothing short of vital for the Edmonton Oilers. While Connor McDavid tends to get the headlines, Draisaitl is the guy who keeps the machine running. He racks up points, wins battles, and never lets off the gas. Year after year, he's right in the middle of the MVP conversation—and this year is no different. Final Verdict: Who will claim the 2025 NHL Hart Trophy? So when the lights go up at center ice on Thursday night, and before the puck drops on Game 4, one of these three will step into the spotlight. Whether it's Hellebuyck's season-defining dominance in goal, Kucherov's offensive wizardry, or Draisaitl's all-around excellence, the NHL's 2025 MVP will be someone who left a lasting imprint on this season. Each took a different path, but they all ended up in the same place—front and center in the race for the Hart. Also Read: Why Danielle Smith and PM Mark Carney are skipping the Edmonton Oilers' biggest game yet
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Udonis Haslem says he nearly fought Jimmy Butler to Defend Miami Heat locker room unity
(Image Source - Getty Images) Udonis Haslem reveals he almost confronted Jimmy Butler following a timeout altercation in 2022, aiming to safeguard locker room harmony. Jimmy Butler, who managed to play just 65 games during his last six seasons with the Heat, departed Miami in February 2025 under a cloud of drama and injuries. Udonis Haslem's narrative sheds light on Heat culture and what unfolds when a player crosses the line. Udonis Haslem was ready to fight Jimmy Butler in 2022 During a June 11 appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Udonis Haslem shared how intense things became during a timeout back in March 2022. He confessed, "I was gonna whoop Jimmy's ass, I love Jimmy but I wasn't gonna let one guy take down an entire locker room." At that moment, Jimmy Butler, who was in his prime with Miami, briefly lost his cool with coach Erik Spoelstra. Udonis Haslem's willingness to throw down highlighted his position as the emotional backbone of the team, a crucial protector against any internal chaos. Jimmy Butler's last seasons in Miami were plagued by missing games. He participated in 60 games during 2023-24, but only 25 in 2024-25 before he asked for a trade. Looking for a multi-year extension and citing injuries, he often found himself on the bench and was ultimately suspended by Pat Riley. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Heat president Riley openly criticized Jimmy Butler's availability and contract requests as tensions escalated. The deadlock broke on February 6, 2025, when Jimmy Butler was sent to the Golden State Warriors as part of a five-team trade. Miami got back Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Dennis Schröder, and a protected first-round pick. Even though he had a dramatic exit, Jimmy Butler managed to revitalize his game in Golden State, playing 30 games towards the end of the season. However, the drama didn't stop there; team legends like Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem called out his playoff performance, saying he didn't show enough assertiveness when it mattered most. Udonis Haslem's story isn't just fun to hear; it really shows how much the Heat value their internal code. Udonis Haslem, who played until he was 42 and is now Miami's vice-president of basketball development, has always stressed the importance of sacrificing for 'Heat Culture.' He's made it known that no player, regardless of their status, is exempt from consequences if they jeopardize team unity. His warning to Jimmy Butler proves that culture can be upheld not only by coaches or management but also by respected players who are willing to intervene. The Miami Heat culture goes beyond just catchy phrases on the walls; it's embodied by people like Udonis Haslem, who isn't afraid to challenge even the biggest stars on the team. His revelation about almost getting into a fight with Jimmy Butler sends a clear signal: unity and a common goal take precedence over personal skills. Also Read: Boston Celtics consider trading Jrue Holiday to Sacramento Kings amidst record $500 million payroll concerns Even as Jimmy Butler joined the Warriors seeking new opportunities, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of what Miami expects and the lengths it will go to preserve its identity.
