Kris Letang, P.K. Subban, Ryan Suter are Norris finalists

The NHL has announced this year's finalists for the James Norris Memorial Trophy, awarded to the defenseman that demonstrates the "greatest all-around ability" at the position.

The finalists are the Penguins' Kris Letang, the Canadians' P.K. Subban and the Wild's Ryan Suter. It is a first-time nomination for all three finalists -- the first year that has happened. The award is voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.

Some traditional nominees like the Bruins' Zdeno Chara (the 2009 winner) and the Predators' Shea Weber (who was a runner-up the past two seasons) were noticeably absent from the field:

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