The trophy is named in honour of James Norris, owner of the Detroit Red Wings franchise from 1932 until his death in 1952. It was first awarded in 1954.
The first winner was Red Kelly of the Detroit Red Wings. The most frequent winners are Bobby Orr of Boston (eight trophies from 1968 to 1975), Doug Harvey (7, Montreal and New York, 1955-58 and 1960-62), and Ray Bourque (5, Boston, 1987-88, 1990-91 and 1994).
James Norris Memorial Trophy Winners