BOSTON — The Great One believes former Bruins defenseman Bobby Orr is one of the NHL’s most legendary figures and deserves to be honored as such.
As the “NHL on TNT” crew discussed the race for the Norris Trophy, awarded to the player media members vote as the “greatest all-around” defenseman, Gretzky made the case for a new award entirely.
Gretzky agrees with those who grumble that the spirit of the Norris Trophy has gotten lost as offensive-minded d-men win the NHL’s ultimate award for the protectors of the blue line more and more.
“A Bobby Orr Trophy, for the most points for a defenseman, and then (a trophy) for the best defensive defenseman. Have two awards. You should honor Bobby Orr, him and Gordie Howe, the greatest players ever,” decreed Gretzky, according to The Athletic.
Gretzky is well-versed in Orr’s offensive prowess. When Gretzky tallied his 103rd assist of the 1980-’81 season on April 1, it was Orr’s record he broke. The 5′11″ Orr would often quarterback the Bruins’ offense, redefining a position known prior only as a team’s second-to-last line of defense. Orr tallied 915 points in his career, the 11th most by a defenseman in history, despite being the only person in the top 20 to play in less than 700 career games.
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