Drew Doughty Injured in Preseason Game, Faces Extended Recovery

Drew Doughty, a veteran defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings, experienced a significant lower-body injury during a preseason matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights. The injury occurred when he collided with the boards while engaged with a player from the opposing team. Following the incident, Doughty was seen in a protective boot and utilizing a knee scooter to navigate the team facility, indicating the severity of his condition. The Kings' coaching staff, including head coach Jim Hiller, has not disclosed the specific nature of the tests being conducted on Doughty but anticipates having more information soon. His injury raises concerns for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season, particularly since he has been a cornerstone of their defense for 17 seasons and played a crucial role in their past Stanley Cup victories. With Doughty potentially sidelined for an extended period, the Kings face the challenge of filling his role on the blue line. The team has already lost another key defenseman, Matt Roy, who signed with the Washington Capitals. This leaves the Kings with two vacancies in their top four defensemen, prompting them to look towards younger players like Brandt Clarke and Jordan Spence to step up. As the team navigates this difficult situation, players like Mikey Anderson express their commitment to collectively compensate for Doughty's absence. The Kings will need to adapt quickly to maintain their competitive edge in the league without one of their most influential players.