Thu 4/26/12 2:40 PM

Erik Karlsson has been nominated for the Norris Trophy. His 78 points represented the most by an NHL defenseman since Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom recorded 80 in 2005-06. Karlsson led all blueliners in goals (19), assists (59) and points. He also vastly improved his plus/minus rating to a plus-16 after he ended up with a minus-30 the year before. His play has made him the most valuable fantasy defenseman going into next season, but it may not secure him the Norris. Karlsson's play is reminiscent to that of Washington's Mike Green in 2008-09 when he led all rearguards with 31 goals and 73 points and he came up short to Boston's Zdeno Chara for the award. Don't be surprised if the same thing happens this time around as well.