The Los Angeles Kings have a big leadership decision hanging over their offseason, and NHL Network thinks the answer is already sitting on the blue line.
With franchise icon Anze Kopitar retired, the question of who takes over as captain is one of the biggest unresolved items for the Kings heading toward the 2026-27 season. NHL Network recently pointed to Drew Doughty as the most likely choice to inherit the “C.”
Mike Johnson made the case on the network, saying, “You know who could do it? Drew Doughty.
It might only be for one year. But I think having Doughty, who's been a de facto captain of the Kings for 15 years anyway, giving it to him would be really nice for him.
This would be his last year with the Kings. Maybe it will be, maybe it won't be.
Recognizing his contribution, his excellence, his commitment to the team and himself and their success, all of it. I just want Drew Doughty to be captain, just because he can talk more and we can hear more of him.
”
The argument for Doughty is easy to follow. He’s a two-time Stanley Cup Champion, he’s spent his entire NHL career with Los Angeles, and by the time the 2026-27 season begins, he’ll be the longest-tenured player on the roster. He already wears an “A,” and for years he’s been one of the franchise’s most established voices.
Doughty has also made it clear he would welcome the job. Over the past year or so, he’s been outspoken about wanting the captaincy and said it would “mean the world to him.”
He described how his role has evolved over time, saying, “I’d love to be captain of this team. It’s something, I guess, when I was younger, something I never thought of.
And I kind of grew into a leadership role, and now it’s something I cherish, and it would mean the world to me to be a captain.”
He’s not the only name in the conversation. NHL Network also mentioned defenseman Mikey Anderson, winger Adrian Kempe, and forward Quinton Byfield as possible options for the job.
Kempe and Anderson have both built reputations as leaders, giving the Kings more than one credible path if they decide to look beyond Doughty. Still, when it comes to experience, presence, and what he’s already meant to the organization, Doughty stands out as the cleanest fit.
The Kings may name their next captain before opening night, or they could wait until later in the season. Either way, it would not be a shock if Doughty ends up becoming the next player to wear the captain’s “C” in Los Angeles.
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