What a healthy Doughty means for the LA Kings this season

LA Kings defenseman Drew Doughty is coming into the 2022-2023 season focused, determined, and well-rested after surgery cost him most of last season. While this is good news for the Kings, other teams should take notice.

Doughty only played 39 games last season due to undergoing wrist surgery on April 11th. In those 39 games, Doughty managed to score seven goals and 24 assists for 31 points. Doughty also had 53 blocked shots and 60 hits. After surgery, he would miss the remainder of the 2021-2022 season, leaving the Kings to look for a replacement internally.

That replacement came in the form of defenseman Sean Durzi, who was able to impact the game from the defensive position. Durzi’s 27 points in 64 games was a welcome breath of fresh air for a depleted blue line. With Doughty back, the veteran can again shoulder the load for the defense.

Doughty is a player who wears his heart on his sleeve and does not back down. A top-paring defenseman, Doughty commands respect while playing a rugged, smart level of hockey. Now that he is back, how does that change things? Or does it? The defense will be much more solidified with Doughty and Sean Walker both returning from injury. With that said, the Kings have a solid six defensemen, one would say a solid seven defensemen. The right side is a bit of a logjam, but Doughty has nothing to worry about.

Doughty will once again be the leader, and offensive production will be there also. He will be in the top pairing with Mikey Anderson, giving Doughty the freedom to do as he wishes. Doughty can slow the game down to where he is comfortable, or he can push the play with some pace.

The LA Kings are looking to advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs this season after exiting the first round of the playoffs last season. With a more explosive offense, a new power play, and the return of Doughty, this team could achieve just that. The Pacific Division is tough, but the Kings have shown before not to count them out.