The Los Angeles Kings are navigating a mix of challenges and triumphs as they continue their 2025-26 season. Recent developments include a significant injury to a key defenseman, a major contract extension for a star forward, and the continued integration of a notable trade acquisition.
Doughty Out Week-to-Week
The Kings will be without veteran defenseman Drew Doughty for the foreseeable future after he sustained a lower-body injury. The injury occurred during Saturday's 1-0 victory over the Ottawa Senators when Doughty blocked a shot with his foot. He left the game in the second period and was later seen wearing a walking boot. Coach Jim Hiller announced Monday that Doughty is considered week-to-week.
Hiller clarified that this injury is unrelated to the broken ankle that sidelined Doughty for a significant portion of the previous season. The team is optimistic about his recovery, with Hiller stating, "Completely separate. It'll heal just fine".
Doughty's absence will require other players to step up, with increased minutes expected for several defensemen. Jacob Moverare is expected to draw into the lineup. Prior to the injury, Doughty had played in all 19 of the Kings' games this season, recording eight points (two goals, six assists) and a plus-7 rating. His absence could potentially affect his chances of representing Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Kempe Signs Eight-Year Extension
In a major move to solidify their core, the Kings have signed forward Adrian Kempe to an eight-year, $85 million contract extension. The deal, which carries an average annual value of $10.625 million, will keep Kempe in Los Angeles through the 2033-34 season.
Kempe, 29, has been a consistent offensive force for the Kings, leading the team with 19 points (6 goals, 13 assists) in 19 games this season. He is also on Sweden's initial roster for the 2026 Olympics. Kempe is coming off a season where he recorded a co-team leading 35 goals and a team-best 73 points.
General Manager Ken Holland emphasized the importance of re-signing Kempe, highlighting his elite competitiveness and development into one of the league's most dynamic two-way forwards. "We are thrilled to have Adrian signed for the next eight seasons," Holland said. Kempe expressed his excitement about remaining with the Kings, stating, "Feels good... Thankful for teammates, fans, everybody's who's been around, and definitely excited to be here for another eight".
Kuzmenko's Role
Forward Andrei Kuzmenko, acquired by the Kings in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers last season, is looking to solidify his role with the team. The Kings signed Kuzmenko to a one-year, $4.3 million contract extension in June.
Kuzmenko, 29, has a history of offensive production, including a 39-goal season with the Vancouver Canucks in 2022-23. After being acquired by the Kings, he recorded five goals and 12 assists in 22 regular-season games. The team hopes he can provide additional scoring depth and contribute to their top-nine forward group.
Kuzmenko, who is a native of Russia, has played in 219 NHL games with 72 goals and 85 assists. The Kings are his fourth NHL team, with previous stints in Vancouver, Calgary, and Philadelphia.
