Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes has a chance to win his first career Norris Trophy at the NHL Awards tonight.
Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes has a chance to win his first career Norris Trophy at the NHL Awards tonight.
Hughes set career highs in just about every category. He scored 17 goals and added 75 assists. His 92 points were first among defensemen in the NHL.
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar and Nashville Predators defenseman Roman Josi are the other two nominees for the James Norris Memorial Trophy.
Hughes' season was nothing short of spectacular. The 24-year-old was named team captain after Bo Horvat was traded, which put extra pressure on him. He met that pressure with great success.
Before this season, Hughes' career high in goals was eight, which he'd done twice. Hughes finished fourth in the NHL among d-men with a +38. The Canucks have found a perfect partner for him in the form of Filip Hronek.
His 75 assists are the second most in a single season in Canucks history, including forwards.
The advanced analytical stats back up his offensive dominance as well. Hughes led the NHL in offensive zone puck possession time, which wasn't close.
Hughes' dominant two-way game solidified his already-known spot as an elite No. 1 defenseman in the NHL.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
