Zach Werenski has surged to heavy favoritism for the Norris Trophy on the strength of his league-leading production among defensemen, posting 81 points in 75 games while pacing all blueliners in even-strength points per game. The Blue Jackets captain earned the top spot in recent NHL.com polling and stands as the clear statistical frontrunner among the three announced finalists. Two-time winner Cale Makar, who finished third in defenseman scoring with 79 points, trails significantly after a season in which Werenski’s all-situations impact and consistency shifted voter sentiment. First-time finalist Rasmus Dahlin posted a career-high 74 points but lacks the same breadth of support in head-to-head comparisons. The current pricing reflects the wisdom of crowds anticipating Professional Hockey Writers’ Association ballots favoring Werenski’s breakout campaign.