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Norris: Lidstrom second to MacInnis

Al MacInnis has the edge over Nicklas Lidstrom in the race for the 2003 Norris Trophy, writes ESPN.com contributor Tom Wheatley. “MacInnis, with his booming shot and control of the puck, gets the edge on offense. He leads NHL defensemen with 64 points and 49 assists. ‘And he doesn’t take chances to get his points,’ said an NHL scout. ‘That’s impressive.’ But Lidstrom is no slouch on offense. He ranks second among D-men with 61 points on 17 goals and 44 assists. Lidstrom, with his uncanny positioning and rink sense, gets the edge in his own zone. He is plus-42, second overall and first among defenders. But MacInnis is no slouch on defense. He is plus-20 while playing in front of a team record-tying seven goalies.”

MacInnis may have more points and may be a great defenseman, but Nick is one of the 3 best players in the world, if not the best player. He is as invaluable to the Wings as it’s possible to be. He definitely should win the Norris.