Evan Bouchard's 95-point season snubbed in Norris Trophy finalists
The 2026 NHL Awards will announce this year’s Norris Trophy winner in the coming months. The honour, given to the league’s top defenceman, has sparked discussion after Edmonton Oilers star Evan Bouchard was left off the finalists’ list. Despite leading all blueliners in scoring, he failed to secure a nomination for the first time in his career. Bouchard dominated the 2025-2026 season with 95 points, finishing 14 points clear of Columbus’s Zach Werenski. His +25 plus-minus rating and 24 minutes of average ice time per game further highlighted his impact. Yet, when the three finalists were named, his absence surprised many.
The Oilers’ early playoff exit added to the frustration. Edmonton fell to the Anaheim Ducks in the first round, ending another season without a deep run. Bouchard later admitted his disappointment at missing out on the Norris recognition.
Meanwhile, teammate Connor McDavid remains under contract for two more years at $25 million. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted no signs of a trade request from the superstar. The focus now shifts to the awards ceremony, where the actual winner will be crowned later this year. Bouchard’s exclusion from the Norris Trophy shortlist leaves questions about the selection process. His 95-point season set a new benchmark for defencemen, but the award will go to one of the three remaining nominees. The decision has already become a talking point as the NHL community awaits the official announcement.
