Overview
- Drew Doughty was announced as the Kings’ 15th captain on Thursday, September 17, 2026, taking over the role left vacant by Anze Kopitar’s retirement.
- Forwards Adrian Kempe and Artemi Panarin plus defenseman Mikey Anderson were named alternate captains as the team opened training camp and introduced Doughty at a press availability.
- Doughty enters the season in the final year of an eight-year contract and the organization has not announced an extension after GM Ken Holland said the club would defer talks earlier in the offseason.
- General manager Ken Holland and new head coach Peter Laviolette publicly endorsed Doughty at the introduction, stressing his competitive standard and role as the continuity link to past championship squads.
- Doughty has spent his entire career with Los Angeles, is a two-time Stanley Cup champion and a 2016 Norris Trophy winner, making him the clearest veteran bridge as the Kings try to move past repeated first-round playoff exits and decide roster and contract moves this season.