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Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar on Monday was named one of the three James Norris Memorial Trophy finalists.
The annual award is presented “to the defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position,” according to the NHL.
The 23-year-old recorded a franchise record for a blueliner with 86 points in 77 regular-season games for Colorado. His 28 goals were tied for fourth on the team and his 58 assists were second only to Nazem Kadri. He is just the fifth NHL defenseman to reach at least 28 goals in the last 30 years.
If Makar wins the Norris Trophy, he will be the first player in franchise history to accomplish the feat. Rob Blake (third in 2001-02), Ray Bourque (second in 2000-01) and Sandis Ozolinsh (third in 1996-97) also received top-three finishes.
Tampa Bay’s Victor Hedman and Nashville’s Roman Josi were also named finalists.
This is Makar’s second straight year being named a finalist. He finished runner-up to Rangers’ Adam Fox last year.
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