Elvis Merzlikins, the Columbus Blue Jackets' goaltender, has been officially named to represent Latvia in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. This marks a significant achievement for Merzlikins, who has previously showcased his skills at six men's world championships. Despite his selection, fellow teammate Zach Werenski did not make the initial roster for the USA Olympic team, sparking discussions about possible roster decisions.

Merzlikins has faced challenges in the NHL, holding a career record of 94-100-35 with a 3.20 GAA and .902 save percentage. His recent season included a respectable performance, yet there are ongoing debates concerning his future with the Blue Jackets as he approaches the final years of his contract. The team's management has indicated there are no plans for a buyout, keeping Merzlikins as the starting goalie for the upcoming season.

Columbus Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski and Denton Mateychuk have received notable accolades, being selected to the NHL’s All-Star and All-Rookie teams. Werenski, finishing second in Norris Trophy voting, led all defensemen with impressive stats, including 23 goals and 82 points. Mateychuk, a rookie, made significant contributions after his call-up from the AHL, recording 13 points in 45 games. Additionally, Sean Monahan earned the Masterton Trophy for exemplifying perseverance and dedication. Despite narrowly missing the playoffs, the Blue Jackets have emerged as a formidable team, with individual players showcasing exceptional talent.

Cale Makar has once again solidified his status as one of the elite defensemen in the NHL, winning the James Norris Trophy for the 2024-25 season. This marks his second time receiving the prestigious award, having previously won it in 2022. The 26-year-old from Calgary notched 30 goals and 62 assists this season, setting a franchise record for points by a defenseman with 92. Makar's remarkable performance included a stunning 13-game point streak, the second-longest for a defenseman to start a season, and placing him among legends like Bobby Orr.

His achievement this year was underscored by the 176 first-place votes he received from the Professional Hockey Writers Association, far surpassing the 1,266 points of runner-up Zach Werenski and the 918 points of last year's winner, Quinn Hughes. Makar's defensive partner, Devon Toews, humorously acknowledged that Makar could have won even more trophies if not for his own contributions on the ice. The Colorado Avalanche had a strong season overall, although they faced a first-round elimination against the Dallas Stars.

Cale Makar has once again proven himself as the premier defenseman in the NHL, claiming the James Norris Trophy for the 2024-25 season. With an impressive tally of 30 goals and 62 assists, Makar set a new Avalanche record for a defenseman, becoming one of only five blueliners in NHL history to achieve back-to-back 90-point seasons. His dominance was evident as he received 176 first-place votes out of 191, significantly surpassing runner-up Zach Werenski and last year's winner Quinn Hughes.

The 26-year-old Calgary native has now been nominated for the Norris Trophy in five of his six seasons, solidifying his legacy. Despite the Avalanche’s early playoff exit, Makar's performance was celebrated by teammates, including Devon Toews and Nathan MacKinnon, who praised him for his contributions to the team. Makar's journey to this achievement was also marked by a memorable surprise celebration with friends and family while golfing in Calgary. He expressed his gratitude, noting the award as a reflection of the entire team's effort.

Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche has been awarded the 2024-25 James Norris Memorial Trophy, denoting the best defenseman in the NHL. Surrounded by family and friends during a golf outing, he received the trophy for the second time, making him one of only two active defensemen with multiple Norris wins. Makar dominated the voting with 176 first-place selections, finishing with 1,861 points. Zach Werenski and Quinn Hughes trailed behind, showcasing a competitive field for this prestigious accolade. Makar set records this season, including franchise highs for a defenseman with 30 goals and 92 points, reinforcing his elite status in the league.