Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes has once again etched his name among the NHL’s elite. On Tuesday, the league announced Hughes as one of three finalists for the 2024–25 Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the defenseman who “demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability at the position.”
The 25-year-old joins Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar and Columbus Blue Jackets stalwart Zach Werenski as contenders for the prestigious award. For Hughes, it’s a chance to defend the title he claimed last season, and to further solidify his place as one of the premier defensemen of his generation.
Hughes’ inclusion comes as little surprise to those who watched him this season. He led the Canucks in assists (60), points (76), and time on ice, averaging an impressive 25:44 per game. His poise, playmaking, and control from the back end were instrumental in driving Vancouver’s success, even amid coaching uncertainty and organizational turnover.
This marks the second consecutive year Hughes has been named a finalist, and if he wins, he would become the first repeat Norris winner since Hall of Famer Nicklas Lidstrom, who captured three straight from 2005-06 to 2007-08.
Despite stiff competition, Hughes’ case is compelling. His ability to quarterback the power play, break the puck out under pressure, and transition seamlessly between defense and offense is unmatched by most in the league. His skating remains elite, and his decision-making has evolved into one of his most dangerous weapons.
Makar, a five-time finalist and 2021-22 winner, leads all defensemen this season with 92 points, including 30 goals—a remarkable feat from the blue line. While Makar’s offensive ceiling may be slightly higher, Hughes is lauded for his well-rounded game and consistency at both ends of the ice.
Werenski, meanwhile, is a first-time finalist but hardly a newcomer to the conversation. The 27-year-old led the league in average ice time at 26:45 and topped all Blue Jackets in assists (59) and points (82). His emergence as a Norris contender adds fresh intrigue to this year’s race.
For Hughes, the nomination comes at a time of change for the Canucks. Head coach Rick Tocchet stepped down earlier this week, citing personal reasons. Tocchet and Hughes were known to share a strong bond, and his departure has reportedly left the Canucks captain processing the news privately.
Canucks president Jim Rutherford revealed that he had reached out to Hughes shortly after Tocchet made his decision, but hadn’t heard back. “I hope he’s playing golf,” Rutherford joked, though he acknowledged Hughes’ emotional connection to his former coach.
Still, Hughes remains the heart of the Canucks and the face of their future. Signed through 2026–27, his stability and performance on the ice continue to inspire hope in Vancouver, even as the team navigates a transition behind the bench.
As the NHL Awards approach, the spotlight will be on whether Hughes can become just the 12th player in league history to win multiple Norris Trophies. If he does, it will further affirm his rise from promising young star to generational two-way defenseman.
Whether he takes home the hardware or not, one thing is clear: Quinn Hughes has cemented himself as a foundational piece of the Canucks — and a name that belongs in any conversation about the NHL’s best.