by Cale Makar’s able skill, speed, and offensive brilliance have taken the NHL by storm. Since his debut with the Colorado Avalanche, he has redefined being a modern defenseman. With his ability to control the game from the blue line, Makar has cemented himself as one of the most exciting players to watch in the league. His recent 6-point performance against the San Jose Sharks is another milestone in his already decorated career, raising the question: Is he the best defenseman in the NHL?
Makar’s influence goes beyond individual games. He has won major awards, played a key role in the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup victory, and continues to lead the league’s top defensemen in points. His combination of offensive firepower, defensive stability, and leadership makes him a unique talent in hockey. But how does he compare to other elite defensemen in the league? And does his recent performance prove that he stands above the rest? Let’s take a deeper look at Makar’s achievements, playing style, and the impact he has had on the NHL.
Makar’s Six-Point Performance Against the Sharks
On March 7, 2025, Cale Makar delivered an unforgettable performance, recording two goals and four assists in the Colorado Avalanche’s 7-3 victory over the San Jose Sharks. This incredible feat made him one of the few defensemen in NHL history to achieve a six-point game, further solidifying his status as a top-tier player. His ability to dominate offensively while maintaining defensive responsibility is what sets him apart from his peers.
In the same game, Nathan MacKinnon also had a stellar performance with two goals and three assists, showcasing the Avalanche’s offensive depth. The chemistry between Makar and MacKinnon was undeniable, as they combined for 11 points, leaving the Sharks struggling to contain their speed and skill. This game was a clear example of Makar’s ability to influence a match and prove why he is one of the best in the league.
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Career Achievements and Accolades
Since entering the NHL, Makar has built an impressive resume filled with individual awards and team accomplishments. His ability to contribute in all areas of the game has earned him recognition as one of the league’s most dominant defensemen. Some of his major achievements include:
- Calder Memorial Trophy (2020) – Awarded to the NHL’s best rookie, Makar made an immediate impact with the Avalanche, proving he was a franchise cornerstone from day one.
- James Norris Trophy (2022) – Given to the league’s top defenseman, Makar won this award after leading all defensemen in goals (28) and finishing second in points (86).
- Stanley Cup Champion (2022) – A crucial part of the Avalanche’s championship-winning team, Makar contributed offensively and defensively to secure the title.
- Conn Smythe Trophy (2022) – Named the playoff MVP, Makar dominated the postseason, becoming only the third defenseman in NHL history to win this award at age 23 or younger.
These achievements highlight why Makar is often mentioned in discussions about the best defensemen in NHL history. His ability to produce offense, shut down opposing forwards, and perform in clutch moments makes him a generational talent.
Comparing Makar to Other Elite Defensemen
The NHL is filled with talented defensemen, making the debate over the best in the league highly competitive. However, Makar’s numbers and performances place him ahead of most of his peers. Let’s compare him to two of the league’s top defensemen:
| Player | Points (2024-25 Season) | Goals | Assists | Power Play Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cale Makar | 49 | 13 | 36 | 20 |
| Quinn Hughes | 45 | 9 | 36 | 18 |
| Zach Werenski | 38 | 8 | 30 | 14 |
Makar leads all defensemen in points, is tied for first in goals, and dominates in power-play production. His offensive numbers are unmatched, and his defensive ability is equally impressive. While players like Quinn Hughes and Adam Fox are elite in their own right, Makar’s ability to control the pace of play and change the outcome of games makes him the most complete defenseman in the league.
Impact on the Colorado Avalanche
Makar is not just a star player; he is the heartbeat of the Colorado Avalanche. His presence on the ice makes the team significantly stronger, as he contributes in all situations, whether at even strength, power play, or penalty kill. The Avalanche’s success in recent years has been largely driven by Makar’s ability to generate offense while maintaining defensive stability.
The team’s recent roster changes, including the acquisition of Brock Nelson and William Dufour, indicate that they are preparing for another deep playoff run. With Makar leading the charge, the Avalanche remain one of the strongest teams in the NHL. His leadership will be essential in guiding the team toward another Stanley Cup.
Final Thoughts: Is Makar the Best in the NHL?
Makar’s 6-point performance is yet another example of his elite skill and game-changing ability. With a Norris Trophy, Stanley Cup, and Conn Smythe already on his resume, he has proven that he is not just one of the best defensemen but one of the best players in the NHL.
His offensive dominance, defensive reliability, and leadership make him an invaluable asset to the Avalanche. While the debate over the best defenseman in the NHL will continue, Makar’s case grows stronger with every standout performance. If he continues at this pace, he could go down as one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history.
Conclusion
Cale Makar’s six-point masterclass against the Sharks showcases his unmatched skill and dominance in the NHL. His ability to control the game, create scoring opportunities, and perform in high-pressure moments makes him a true generational talent. As he continues to break records and collect accolades, the question remains: Is Makar the best defenseman in the NHL today? Based on his achievements, numbers, and impact, the answer might very well be yes.
His journey is far from over, and if his current trajectory is any indication, Makar could be on his way to becoming one of the greatest defensemen of all time. Whether you’re a fan of the Avalanche or just an admirer of elite hockey talent, Makar’s career is one worth following closely.
FAQs
How many points did Cale Makar score in his six-point game?
Cale Makar recorded two goals and four assists, totaling six points.
Has Cale Makar won the Norris Trophy?
Yes, he won the Norris Trophy in 2022 as the NHL’s best defenseman.
Is Cale Makar the best defenseman in the NHL?
Many consider him the best defenseman due to his offensive and defensive dominance.
How many Stanley Cups has Cale Makar won?
He won one Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.
What makes Cale Makar special?
His elite skating, offensive skill, defensive ability, and leadership set him apart.
