Sharks defenseman Brent Burns is a finalist for the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s best defenseman for the second straight season, the league announced on Friday.
After finishing first among NHL defensemen in the regular season with 29 goals and 76 points, and leading the league with 320 shots, Burns is thought to be the frontrunner ahead of Victor Hedman and Erik Karlsson.
Burns, 32, became just the second NHL defenseman to lead his team in goals (29, tied with Joe Pavelski), assists (47) and points, joining Kevin Hatcher (1990-91, Washington Capitals). Burns’ 29 goals were the most by an NHL defenseman since Mike Green had 31 for Washington in 2008-09.