Las Vegas, NV -- (Sports Network) - Zdeno Chara of the Boston Bruins was awarded the Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman.

Chara, who was nominated for the award last season, finished the regular season with 19 goals and 31 assists along with a plus-23 rating. He led a Boston defense which allowed the fewest goals per game in the league.

"I'd like to congratulate all the nominees and others who won awards tonight," said Chara. "I feel very humbled to win this prestigious award."

Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom, who had won this award three straight seasons and six of the last seven, and Mike Green of the Washington Capitals were the other nominees.