The debate around the Norris Trophy is heating up, and Evan Bouchard has found himself right in the middle of it. Despite leading all NHL defensemen in scoring, the Edmonton Oilers blueliner still isn’t considered the favorite by many voters, and now a Hall of Fame voice has added to the discussion.
Hall of Fame D-Man Leaves Evan Bouchard Off Norris Ballot
Bouchard currently sits atop the defensemen scoring race with 91 points, ahead of Zach Werenski (82), while Quinn Hughes and Lane Hutson (76) are tied not far behind. His offensive output has been historic, yet it hasn’t translated into clear Norris Trophy favoritism.
Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Pronger revealed his own ballot and notably did not place Bouchard at the top. “I personally have Rasmus Dahlin one on my list. I think he’s been phenomenal. I love the way he defends, competes so hard. He gets under the skin of the other team’s best player, and he’s a talent offensively, and he drives their offense,” he said.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing that the Norris Trophy should reward the league’s best defenseman, not simply the highest-scoring one.
“I have Rasmus Dahlin No. 1 as it stands right now… I think Norris, unbelievable amount of good D this year. I think Schaefer… I think Werenski, Quinn Hughes, all these guys deserve consideration… but the fact that we’re showing this board is a disservice to this award. This award is best defenseman,“ Friedman said, while questioning how much weight offensive statistics should carry in the voting.
One of the biggest hurdles for Bouchard remains the perception that his numbers are boosted by playing alongside superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Critics often label him a power-play specialist, pointing to his significant production (33 points) with the man advantage.
He’s also battling a lingering reputation for inconsistent defensive play. Analysts frequently compare him to established two-way defenders like Cale Makar, and Hughes, suggesting those players offer more complete games.
That said, Bouchard’s underlying numbers remain strong, including a +22 rating at even strength and an excellent expected-goals differential. Those analytics suggest his impact goes beyond just offense, even if the narrative hasn’t fully shifted.
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With the regular season winding down, the Norris race remains wide open. Whether Bouchard’s scoring dominance will ultimately sway voters or if a more defensively balanced candidate prevails is still to be seen.
