The Los Angeles Kings could be getting a key part of their team back this week with the return of defenseman Drew Doughty. He would suffer a fractured ankle during the preseason and has yet to take the ice in the regular season.
However, he is traveling with the Kings on their five-game road trip which is a good indication that he could play at some point during this road trip. He might not only play for the Kings but also get a chance to participate in the 4 Nation Face-off in February, which is replacing the All-Star Game this season.
Over the weekend, it was reported that Alex Pietrangelo of the Vegas Golden Knights would be withdrawing from the 4 Nations Face-off due to an injury. At about the same time, Drew Doughty didn't hide his feelings about the 4 Nations Face-off and his desire to play in the tournament.
Could Team Canada be waiting to see how Drew Doughty looks upon his return?
On Monday morning, Pierre LeBrun tweeted that Team Canada will be taking their time to find Pietrangelo's replacement. He also mentioned the fact that Doughty's return could be a factor in their desire to wait.
Team Canada will take its time evaluating its options to replace Alex Pietrangelo who pulled out of 4 Nations. Probably have until just before they arrive in Montreal in 2 weeks. Likely preference is RHD but management is evaluating a group of players and will take best player at…
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) January 27, 2025
It certainly makes sense for Team Canada to want to wait because Drew Doughty would be a great addition at this point. He has been one of the best defensemen in the NHL and won the Norris Trophy in the 2015-16 season.
The question will be if the Kings would want Doughty to play in this tournament as they desperately need him down the stretch. There is certainly some risk associated with him playing but he has proven to be durable in his career and getting some extra ice time in exhibition games like this might be a great way to build up the endurance for him.
If Drew Doughty does end up joining Team Canada, he would join Adrian Kempe, who is on Team Sweden, as the only Los Angeles Kings in the 4 Nations Face-off