Thus far into the 2025-26 season, nearly every team in the league is in playoff contention. But for the majority of the campaign has been dominated by the Colorado Avalanche, who look like unbeatable juggernauts so far, as evidenced by them having just three regulation losses through their 41 games played. Due to their strong play, they are not only expected to be the favorites to hoist the Stanley Cup at season's end, but most of their stars are set to leave with individual trophies at the NHL Awards.
When it comes to the Norris Trophy, Cale Makar of the Avalanche has been considered the heavy favorite to win the award for the best defenseman in hockey.