Kings Rumors: Potential External Options To Replace Drew Doughty

Saturday, September 28, 2024

The Los Angeles Kings are facing a tough situation following Drew Doughty's surgery for a fractured ankle, which has sidelined him on a month-to-month basis. 

As a cornerstone of the team, Doughty's absence leaves a considerable gap on the blue line, forcing the Kings to explore both internal and external options to fill his minutes. 

Internally, Kyle Burroughs, Brandt Clarke, and Jordan Spence are the leading candidates to step up. 

Clarke, who was slated to pair with veteran Joel Edmundson, brings promising talent but the Kings are hesitant to disrupt his development plan. 

"They sound pretty excited about Clarke, but they have a plan, and they don’t want to vary from it," Elliotte Friedman explained. 

Burroughs, acquired from the San Jose Sharks, has been seeing early opportunities in Doughty's absence and could take on an expanded role.

Externally, the Kings could dip into the free-agent or trade markets if internal solutions prove insufficient. 

With limited cap space, placing Doughty’s $11 million salary on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) would create the flexibility needed to pursue veterans like Justin Schultz, Kevin Shattenkirk, or Tyson Barrie. 

That being said, Barrie is expected to sign with the Calgary Flames after signing a PTO a couple of weeks ago.

All three have been highlighted as potential short-term solutions, given their right-handed shots and ability to bring stability to the defense. 

Eric Stephens of The Athletic pointed out that a veteran presence could help bridge the gap while the younger players continue to develop, noting that an external move might be necessary if Doughty’s recovery drags into the season.

As Friedman remarked, "Everyone’s got a plan until they get punched in the face." 

While the internal depth of Clarke, Spence, and Burroughs will be tested, the option to bring in a veteran could provide the stability needed to manage this critical period.

Photo Credit: Jessica Alcheh-Imagn Images



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