How can the Kings adapt in the absence of Drew Doughty? Who will need to take on a bigger role?

Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty suffered a left ankle fracture during a preseason game in Las Vegas, leaving the team to manage his absence while he undergoes further testing to determine the severity of the injury. With key defenders like Sean Durzi, Matt Roy, and Sean Walker no longer with the team, the Kings will need to rely on younger players like Jordan Spence and Brandt Clarke to step up in Doughty’s absence. Coach Hiller has Spence paired with Vladislav Gavrikov on the second line and could potentially look to veterans like Tyson Barrie or Kevin Shattenkirk for additional support. The Kings are focused on playing with a more physical edge this season, despite injuries to players like Arthur Kaliyev and Doughty taking a toll on the team’s lineup. It will be a collective effort to fill Doughty’s shoes, but with players like Spence gaining confidence and experience, the team is hopeful they can overcome this setback. Despite the challenges ahead, the Kings remain optimistic about the upcoming season and are determined to rally together in support of one of their key players.

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