Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin was named one of three finalists for the James Norris Memorial Trophy Thursday after helping lead the franchise to its first playoff appearance in 14 years.
The award is presented annually to the NHL’s top defenseman as voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association. Dahlin joins Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche and Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets as finalists.
Dahlin finished the season with a career-high 74 points while playing a major role in Buffalo’s turnaround season. The 25-year-old said the recognition reflects both personal growth and the team’s success after years of rebuilding.
Dahlin is also a finalist for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL player who best demonstrates perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.
Mets blank Blue Jays to even series Earlier this season, Dahlin took a leave of absence to return to Sweden after his fiancée, Carolina Matovac, dealt with major heart failure following a vacation in France last summer. She later underwent a heart transplant and returned to Buffalo in March, where she attended her first Sabres game of the season.
Makar is seeking his third Norris Trophy, while Werenski finished as runner-up for the award last season.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.