Quinn Hughes is officially the best defenceman in the NHL.
The Vancouver Canucks captain was awarded the Norris Trophy at the NHL Awards Show on Thursday in Las Vegas, which seemed like a foregone conclusion after he led all NHL defencemen in scoring during the regular season. Hughes shattered his own franchise record for most points by a Canucks defenceman, scoring 17 goals and 92 points in 82 games.
Beyond just the points, Hughes was the primary play-driver for the Canucks as they rocketed to the top of the Pacific Division. Hughes was a force to be reckoned with, as the Canucks outscored their opponents 162-to-77 in all situations when he was on the ice.
What was particularly impressive about Hughes is how he reinvented his already outstanding offensive game, adding a new dimension of goalscoring to his already prolific playmaking.
Accordingly, he was a fitting winner of the Norris and had an argument for the Hart Trophy as well.
Hughes gave a fantastic speech to accept his award and was quick to give credit to those who helped him get here.
"First off, I'd like to thank my teammates. It's a great group of guys," said Hughes. "The reality of winning an award like this is you can't do it alone and you need really good players around you and I certainly have that, so thanks fellas."
Hughes also thanked the coaching staff, management, ownership, and his agents, all by name. Then, of course, he thanked his family.
"My family, more than anything, my brothers — it's surreal to be able to go through the same profession as you guys," said Hughes. "My parents, for your continued support and love."
To top it off, Hughes gave kudos to his fellow nominees.
"To Roman Josi, congrats on a great season...when I think Nashville Predators, I think of you. You're a fantastic player and they're lucky to have you," said Hughes. "And Cale [Makar], I probably love watching my brothers play most but I'd say you're next on that list and I learn a lot from you. Congrats on another great season. I appreciate you guys."
Hughes is the first Canuck to ever be nominated for the Norris, let alone win the Norris. Given that he's still only 24 years old, it might not be his last.
The Norris Trophy is voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers Association, of which I am a member. Hughes ran away with the vote, getting 172 first-place votes. The runner-up, Roman Josi, had just 12 first-place votes.
In the interests of full disclosure, here is my Norris ballot:
1. Quinn Hughes - Vancouver Canucks
2. Roman Josi - Nashville Predators
3. Evan Bouchard - Edmonton Oilers
4. Gustav Forsling - Florida Panthers
5. Cale Makar - Colorado Avalanche
