During his long career in the National Hockey League (NHL), Drew Doughty stood out for his consistency and hard work. Forced to take a first break due to a knee injury, the 32-year-old returned to action as if he had never left.
This comeback, Doughty made it on November 30 in an overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks. The Kings general has since had his best moments last Sunday, when he collected three points in addition to neutralizing Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in a 5-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers.
“I will not lie, I was a little fearful in my first appearance, he had mentioned after the meeting against Anaheim. I haven’t been nervous before a meeting since my first game in the NHL, and tonight I felt it a bit. I’ve never had to deal with an injury before, so I had butterflies, but I felt great after a few appearances. ”
Doughty was still on the sidelines for 16 duels. It’s still better than the two months that were originally planned. In form, the Ontarian is one of the best defensemen on the Bettman Tour.
“He really impresses me,” said Quebecer Phillip Danault to the NHL Network a few weeks ago. Its level of competitiveness is the highest of any that I know of. It shows all his passion and he is dedicated to performing. ”
Learning for others
The fullback has amassed 11 points in eight games so far. Even though he missed two-thirds of the campaign, he is Los Angeles’ fifth-best scorer. Needless to say, the Kings’ defensive squad is much different without him.
Still, head coach Todd McLellan is very happy with his first two pair on the blue line, who have held the Kings fortress during the King’s absence. Behind Alexander Edler and Matt Roy, Mikey Anderson and Tobias Bjornfot remain young players.
“[Son retour] help everyone. There was a lot of pressure on the shoulders of Anderson and Bjornfot, but also Roy and Edler. These guys must have taken more and played big minutes. It’s good for them, hopefully they gain experience and confidence, ”said McLellan, his words being echoed on Wednesday by the Kings website.
Of course, the instructor touches wood for the sequel with Doughty. Few defenders can spend nearly 28 minutes on the ice after six weeks without playing …