REALITY CHECK: He may be the next captain but the LA Kings need to reevaluate Drew Doughty's role
From Locked On Kings - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Kings by Eddie Garcia, Locked On Podcast Network
May 7, 2026 · 32 min · Episode 1506
About this episode
Eddie Garcia discusses Drew Doughty's future with the LA Kings and the implications of his performance and leadership as the team evolves.
The Los Angeles Kings face a decision as Drew Doughty's future comes into sharp focus. With age and diminishing offensive stats, should Doughty take on a reduced role, or is he still vital as the Kings' top defenseman and likely next captain? Eddie Garcia reevaluates Doughty’s legacy, his recent performance alongside Brandt Clarke’s rise, and the franchise’s plans for contract extensions as the Kings look to balance sentiment with on-ice results. Key topics include the impact of Doughty’s leadership after Anze Kopitar’s retirement and speculation on the Kings’ next head coach—with names like Jay Woodcroft and Bruce Cassidy in the mix. Plus: Auston Matthews likely stays with the Toronto Maple Leafs after the draft lottery shakes up expectations, and a Kings rival bolsters its roster with a top pick. Can the Kings evolve while honoring their franchise icon?
People in this episode
Host: Eddie Garcia
Topics covered
- Drew Doughty's role
- LA Kings leadership
- contract extensions
- NHL coaching speculation
- team evolution
- franchise legacy
Keywords
- Drew Doughty
- LA Kings
- Anze Kopitar
- NHL
- contract extensions
- coaching speculation
- Auston Matthews
- Brandt Clarke
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs
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