NHL-Cale Makar (Credit: Getty Images) The 2025 NHL season has made it clear: today’s defensemen are more than shot-blockers and zone-clearers. And they are dynamic offensive threats; NHL Network’s newly released top 20 defensemen list reflects the evolution of the role. And blending high-end scoring, elite skating, and defensive reliability.
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Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, and Zach Werenski headline a stacked lineup
Leading the charge is Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, who notched 92 points (30 goals, 62 assists) in 80 games. And became just the ninth defenseman in NHL history to hit the 30-goal mark. He’s followed by Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, whose 76 points in 68 games highlighted his unmatched vision and passing. Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets takes third with a franchise-record 82 points, leading all defensemen in ice time.Experience continues to shine, with several established stars dominating the rankings. Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning recorded 66 points in his first season as captain while maintaining a heavy defensive workload. Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators remains a model of consistency, even after an injury-shortened campaign. Josh Morrissey of the Winnipeg Jets not only added 62 points but anchored the NHL’s stingiest defensive unit.
From rookies like Brock Faber to veterans like Victor Hedman, talent runs deep
The next generation is rising fast. Brock Faber of the Minnesota Wild logged over 25 minutes per game, ranking fourth in the NHL for ice time. Lane Hutson of the Montreal Canadiens broke rookie assist records with 60 helpers, tying a mark that had stood since 1981. Thomas Harley of the Dallas Stars continued to impress with 50 points and a strong plus-32 rating.
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Complete NHL Network top 20
Cale Makar – Colorado AvalancheQuinn Hughes – Vancouver CanucksZach Werenski – Columbus Blue JacketsMiro Heiskanen – Dallas StarsVictor Hedman – Tampa Bay LightningJosh Morrissey – Winnipeg JetsRasmus Dahlin – Buffalo SabresJaccob Slavin – Carolina HurricanesRoman Josi – Nashville PredatorsEvan Bouchard – Edmonton OilersCharlie McAvoy – Boston BruinsGustav Forsling – Florida PanthersJake Sanderson – Ottawa SenatorsThomas Harley – Dallas StarsShea Theodore – Vegas Golden KnightsAdam Fox – New York RangersDevon Toews – Colorado AvalancheMikhail Sergachev – Utah MammothLane Hutson – Montreal CanadiensBrock Faber – Minnesota WildFrom rookies breaking records to veterans adding to their legacies, the 2025 NHL defensemen class is as deep as it is talented. Whether it’s a crucial block, a breakout pass, or a clutch power-play goal, these 20 players are proving that in the modern NHL, great defense is as much about creating offense as it is about stopping it.Also Read: The Toronto Maple Leafs could spark a Stanley Cup run with a Pete Babando-style NHL trade to replace Mitch Marner