As the 2025-26 NHL season progresses, the Los Angeles Kings find themselves in a precarious position, prompting questions about the future of their roster and the potential for significant changes. At the heart of these questions is Drew Doughty, a Kings legend who is potentially facing his final season in Los Angeles.
Doughty, 36, has been a cornerstone of the Kings' defense for well over a decade. However, the team's current performance has sparked speculation about whether General Manager Ken Holland might consider shaking things up before the trade deadline. The Kings currently sit 5th in the Pacific Division with a record of 19-16-10.
The Kings' struggles this season have been multifaceted. Despite solid goaltending, the team has struggled to score goals, ranking near the bottom of the league in goals for. The power play has been anemic, and the team has had difficulty stringing together wins. Doughty himself has voiced his frustration with the team's inconsistency. While he has contributed 3 goals and 13 points in 38 games, his impact hasn't been enough to lift the team.
Several factors could contribute to a potential trade involving Doughty. Firstly, his age and the remaining two years of his hefty $11 million cap hit might make him an attractive asset for a contending team seeking veteran leadership and Stanley Cup-winning experience. Secondly, Doughty reportedly has a seven-team trade list, suggesting that he would have some control over his destination. Finally, the emergence of younger defensemen within the Kings organization might make Doughty expendable, allowing the team to acquire assets for the future.
However, trading Doughty would not be an easy decision. He is a beloved figure in Los Angeles, a fan favorite who has been integral to the team's success. Moving him would signal a significant shift in the team's direction, potentially alienating fans and impacting team morale. Furthermore, Doughty's leadership and experience would be difficult to replace.
If the Kings were to explore a trade, potential destinations for Doughty could include teams in need of a top-pairing defenseman with a proven track record. Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, or Boston Bruins, who are consistently in contention, might view Doughty as the missing piece to their Stanley Cup puzzle.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to trade Drew Doughty will depend on the Kings' performance in the coming weeks and the offers they receive from other teams. If the team continues to struggle, Holland might be forced to consider all options, even if it means parting ways with a franchise icon. The possibility of a trade, however remote, hangs over Doughty's final season in Los Angeles, adding an extra layer of intrigue to a season already filled with uncertainty.
