Kings’ Drew Doughty reveals how long he has left in his career appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Kings are navigating a tough start to the 2026-27 NHL campaign. They are figuring things out without Anze Kopitar, who retired at the end of last season. New captain Drew Doughty is leading the way, but some wondered how long he would be with the team.
Doughty is the best defenseman in the history of the Kings. He has won two Stanley Cups with the franchise and holds multiple franchise records. He is 36 years old, but he doesn’t envision himself slowing down any time soon.
“I think I can play until over 40,” Doughty said, via NHL.com. “I believe I can. I’ve just got to stay healthy. The want to do it hasn’t dropped, so, until I lose that, I’m not going to retire.”
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Whether he plays another three or four seasons remains to be seen. There is a slightly more pressing matter in the immediate future, though. Doughty is a free agent this summer, and has not signed a contract extension to this point.
The Kings captain told NHL.com he wants to remain in Los Angeles. He has not played for another franchise in his illustrious career. It would be quite the sight to see him in another sweater. At this time, there is no rush to get a contract done.
For now, the focus for Doughty remains the same. He knows his career will end sooner or later, and he wants to win it all one last time.
The Stanley Cup, that’s what motivates me. I love being around my teammates. When I retire, I’ll be crying like a baby, I’ll tell you that much. I just love the game of hockey. I love the families that we create in hockey, and I love the competition the most. And to try to get a Cup,” he said, via NHL.com.
The Kings are in action on Monday night, and they currently hold a 5-2 lead over the New York Rangers.