NHL Norris Trophy - Statistical look at the last 3 years

The Norris trophy is an award handed out to the “defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position” The voting is conducted by members of the professional hockey writer’s association. It is not at all based on stats, although this breakdown is. 

Shea Weber finds himself in among the nominee’s with familiar friend from the all star skill’s event, Zdeno Chara, and young Ottawa sensation Erik Karlsson. This is the second consecutive year for Weber and Chara.

Here is a Statistical breakdown of the last three years

Stats that will help Weber:

-          Highest time on ice

-          Most Power Play Goals

-          Tied for most goals

-          Weber has improved in almost every statistic category since last year.

Stats that won’t help Weber

-          Lowest assist numbers

-          Lowest point total

-          Lowest Games Played

Other considerations

Statically, Erik Karlsson seems to be the clear favorite. He has an impressive .96 points per game with a mediocre +16 to boot. But, critics of Karlsson are quick to point out that he isn’t the best defensemen around. He is known for somewhat frequent mind lapses and poor position that lead to scoring chances. He also does not bring the physical game that Shea Weber is capable of. Chara leads the nominees in +/- but is last in ice time and has the highest penalty minutes.

Prediction (sort of)

Karlsson’s stats, although impressive, shouldn’t be enough to give him the trophy. In 2010 Mike Green averaged 1.01 point per game and he lost out to Duncan Keith (who lead nominee’s in Ice Time). Green did only play 75 games compared to Karlsson’s 81. None the less, Weber’s powerful point shot and physical defensive play will be enough to win him his first Norris trophy