Today the NHL announced that Bruins captain Zdeno Chara has been named one of the three finalists for the 2008-09 Norris Trophy, which is awarded "to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-round ability in the position." The other two finalists are: Red Wings' Nicklas Lidstrom and Capitals' Mike Green.
Chara anchored a Bruins blue line that allowed the lowest goals per game figure in the NHL this season (2.29). He led the Bruins and ranked sixth overall in the league in average ice time (26:04) and finished the regular season with a career-high 19 goals, 31 assists and a +23 rating. His 19 goals ranked fourth in the league amongst all defensemen, while his 11 power play strikes ranked third.
Chara's average ice time (26:04), hits (169) and blocked shots (123) are the highest amongst the other two Norris finalists.
Members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association submitted ballots for the Norris Trophy at the conclusion of the regular season, with the top three vote-getters designated as finalists. The winner will be announced Thursday, June 18, during the 2009 NHL Awards show that will be broadcast live from the Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Hotel Las Vegas on VERSUS in the United States and on CBC in Canada.
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