Heartbreaking news was revealed today by the LA Kings: beloved veteran and Olympic gold medalist Drew Doughty has suffered a serious injury.
Drew Doughty, one of the NHL's most respected veterans, has been a player for well over a decade. He won the James Norris Trophy in 2016 and two Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014.
He has virtually assured himself a spot in the hockey hall of fame with his 1177 games played, all with the LA Kings, who selected him second overall in 2008.
"You don't want to have Drew out for an extended period of time, but that's just a sad reality now and we're gonna have to deal with it," Kings center and captain Anze Kopitar said.
Fortunately, Jim Hiller, the head coach of the LA Kings, thinks Drew Doughty will make a comeback at some point in the campaign. His seasoned expertise and fierceness will be tremendously needed if the Kings advance to the playoffs.
Drew Doughty is one of the highest paid NHL players, bringing in $11 million a year. For the LA Kings, missing this much time is a huge blow.
"However long he's out, we'll try and make up for everything he brings, but obviously it's a shoe to fill," said Mikey Anderson, Doughty's usual defensive partner. "But we'll try our best to collectively fill it."
Jordan Spence and Brandt Clarke, two talented young players, will try to fill those roles for the Kings.
In 71 games, 23-year-old Spence recorded two goals and 22 assists. He ran the second power play and was mainly responsible for the third defensive pairing.
We hope Drew Doughty heals quickly and gets back on the ice as soon as possible.