Drew Doughty is without a doubt the captain of the Los Angeles Kings’ defense core. He is constantly placed in the same group when it comes to elite, Norris Trophy worthy candidates.
The other players in that group are Erik Karlsson and Brent Burns of the rival San Jose Sharks, Mark Giordano of the Calgary Flames and Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Some critics say that he should not even be mentioned in this group and that he is not even mentioned as one of the games greats defensemen.
Here are those players, along with stats since the 2015-16 season, Stanley cups and Norris Trophies, according to hockeyreference.com.
Drew Doughty 44 goals 156 assists 200 points +21 196 Penalty Minutes 2015-16 Norris Trophy 2011-12, 13-14 Stanley Cup
Erik Karlsson 45 goals 215 assists 260 points -11 136 Penalty Minutes 11-12, 14-15 Norris Trophies 0 Stanley Cups
Brent Burns 84 goals 217 assists 301 points +11 173 Penalty Minutes 16-17 Norris Trophy 0 Stanley Cups
Mark Giordano 63 goals 144 assists 207 points +56 245 Penalty Minutes 18-19 Norris Trophy 0 Stanley Cups
Victor Hedman 55 goals 181 assists 236 points +80 191 Penalty Minutes 17-18 Norris Trophy 0 Stanley Cups
Drew Doughty may not have the offensive stats the others do, however, the other teams have more firepower than the Kings do. He does have something the others do not have and that is 2 Stanley Cups. In my opinion, he is still an elite defenseman when it comes to all-around play. The Kings as a whole have had a couple of difficult years and Doughty has struggled along with the team. That does not take away from his credentials though, Stanley cups, Norris Trophies, All-Star teams, etc.
Do you think Drew Doughty has passed his prime, is overrated or hit a snag just like the Kings have? Does he still have elite status in your mind or has the league passed him by?
Let me know what you think on where you think Drew Doughty stands amongst the leagues best defensemen.
Featured Image: NHL.com
