2014 NHL Awards Preview - James Norris Trophy

2 of 5

HHOF.com

The James Norris Trophy is awarded to the defense player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position

We near the end of our 2014 NHL Awards preview with a look at the top blueliners in the NHL, and the league is getting to the point where there has never been a deeper pool of quality NHL defensemen. Two of the 3 nominees this season are former winners, and neither of the last two winners (P.K. Subban and Erik Karlsson) were nominated despite having very good seasons.

The Nominees Are…

Apr 24, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara (33) takes a shot in the second period against the Detroit Red Wings in game four of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Joe Louis Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins

Chara might be slowing down a touch in his later years, but the anchor of the blue line of the President’s Trophy winning Bruins is still a dominant force. Although he finished just 25th among NHL blueliners in scoring, he still notched 17 goals and 40 points, while posting a +25 rating.

Chara has been a finalist on 5 previous occasions, but has won the award just once, in 2009.

May 18, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith (2) in game one of the Western Conference Final of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Duncan Keith, Chicago Blackhawks

The best blueliner on the defending Stanley Cup Champions, Keith led all defensemen in assists (55) and finished second to Karlsson in points with 61. He also had a +22 rating on one of the best pairings in the league with partner Brent Seabrook.

He won the Norris Trophy in 2010, the only other time he was nominated for the award.

Apr 8, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Nashville Predators defenseman Shea Weber (6) defends against Dallas Stars center Tyler Seguin (91) during the second period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Shea Weber, Nashville Predators

Weber led all blueliners with 23 goals (12 on the power play) , and tied for 3rd in points with 56. Not having the advantage of being on an offensively gifted team, he had a -2 rating on the season.

AND THE WINNER IS…

May 21, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith (2) skates with the puck against the Los Angeles Kings during game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Keith. This award traditionally goes to the best offensive defenseman who isn’t a complete liability in his own end. Karlsson finished -15 which hurt his chances despite leading Keith by 13 points, but Keith’s all around play and high offensive totals make him the most likely to accept the award.