LA Kings: Three players who will exceed their projected points production
By Ryan Sikes
Drew Doughty
Projections: 56 GP, 7.1 G, 23.7 A, 30.8 PTS
Drew Doughty has heard the criticism. He’s no longer a top defenseman, and he could potentially not be selected for the Canadian Olympic team. TSN and other various media outlets have written him off.
The LA Kings also acquired left-shot defenseman Olli Maatta from the Blackhawks to give the 31-year-old Doughty a legitimate pairing partner. Maatta is a two-time Stanley Cup winner as well. Todd McLellan spoke highly of Maatta’s play in training camp, indicating he’s a smart player who takes care of the puck.
“We play the same way. We’re thinkers, not the fastest skaters,” said Doughty after the first day of training camp. “Our specialty will be moving the puck out of our own zone. I’m super excited to play with him.”
If that doesn’t motivate Drew Doughty to return to Norris Trophy form, I’m not sure what will.
Next. Kaliyev vows to make mark with LA Kings right away. dark
He’s two years removed from a ten-goal, 60-point season, finishing second in Norris Trophy voting. Much of the LA Kings 2021 success banks on Doughty. He has motivation. He’s taking the criticism personally. He has a veteran pairing partner. Expected a big year from Drew Doughty.