A trio of under-the-radar forwards are emerging as potential dark horse contenders for the Norris Trophy, typically awarded to the league’s top defenseman, raising intriguing questions about shifting expectations in the NHL. The piece highlights players whose defensive impact and offensive contributions have quietly elevated their profiles, challenging traditional notions of what it means to dominate at the blue line. Analysts point to standout performances in puck possession, playmaking, and two-way dominance as key factors fueling their candidacies. With the trophy’s prestige and the evolving role of modern defensemen, this analysis examines how these players could redefine the award’s criteria.

Three NHL Dark Horse Candidates For The 2026-27 Norris Trophy  Yahoo Sports