2026 NHL Norris Trophy Betting Odds

Gone are the days when one blueliner dominated the game consistently, as Bobby Orr did in the late 60s and early ’70s.

There was no disputing that he was the best defenseman in the game at that time, as he had captured the Norris Trophy in eight consecutive seasons.

But these days, there are so many exceptional defensemen in the league, it’s hard to point to one of them as the best. In 2024-25, Cale Makar took the award for the second time after winning it in 2022.

Recent Norris Trophy Winners

Makar joins Erik Karlsson is the only active defenseman in the NHL who has won the Norris Trophy multiple times. Karlsson won twice with the Ottawa Senators and once with San Jose.

Will we see another new name added to the list, or will a recent winner once again capture the award?

2026 Norris Trophy Favorites

Cale Makar (-115) – Colorado Avalanche

When healthy, he can put up points with the best of them. He finished second last season amongst defensemen with 30 goals and had 15 already at the 2026 Winter Olympics break.

The Norris Trophy winner is an elegant skater with size and speed, and remains a major part of the potent Colorado offense. A third Norris Trophy may not be too far away for this generational talent.

Zach Werenski (-115) – Columbus Blue Jackets

Werenski has put together an excellent season for the Columbus Blue Jackets, showcasing dynamic two-way play with strong offensive production from the back end and improved defensive positioning that has been integral to his team’s success.

His combination of power-play points, transitional rush efficiency, and stabilized defensive minutes has made him a legitimate contender for the Norris Trophy this year.

Quinn Hughes (+2700) – Vancouver Canucks

While putting together another outstanding again this season, Hughes anchors the blue line with elite puck-moving ability and defensive impact while also pacing the offense.

He’s notched impressive totals including over 55 assists and more than 70 total points, leading all defensemen in scoring and contributing key minutes at even strength and on the power play. That combination of offensive creativity, playmaking, and responsible defense has made Hughes a top contender for the Norris.

Evan Bouchard (+3500) – Edmonton Oilers

Evan Bouchard has continued his strong offensive and transitional play for the Oilers, emerging as one of the top scoring defensemen this season with over 50 assists and more than 60 total points, pacing the back end in both power-play production and even-strength impact.

His combination of offensive creativity, smooth puck movement, and increasingly reliable defensive play has made him a legitimate contender, highlighting his role as a driving force on one of the league’s most dynamic blue lines.

*odds provided by BetMGM

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Always Shop Around

If you like a particular defenseman to take home the Norris Trophy this year, don’t just settle on the first set of odds you see.

My advice is to shop around, as not all sites set their lines the same. The chance of finding a better number elsewhere is extremely high.

For example, you can find Evan Bouchard at +1100 on BetMGM, but wouldn’t it make more sense to bet him at +1600 on FanDuel?

That is a considerable difference in profit and ROI. So, shop around for your Best Odds and get every edge you can over the sportsbooks.

Also, check out our other dedicated NHL futures betting articles:

• Playoffs Betting Odds
• Vezina Trophy Odds
• MVP Betting Odds