LA Kings veteran and Olympic gold medalist Drew Doughty out long term following devastating injury

One of the most well-respected veterans in the NHL, Drew Doughty has played in the league for well over a decade, winning two Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014, and the James Norris trophy in 2016.

His 1177 games played, all with the LA Kings who selected him second overall in 2008, have essentially guaranteed him a place in the hockey hall of fame.

Doughty will now miss several months with a fractured ankle that will require surgery.

Here is the scene in which Drew Doughty suffered his injury:

LA Kings head coach Jim Hiller luckily believes that Drew Doughty will return at some time during the season. If the Kings makes the playoffs, his veteran experience and intensity will greatly needed.

Making $11 million annually, Drew Doughty is among the highest paid players in the NHL. Missing this much time is a massive blow for the LA Kings.

On a team still featuring veteran like Anze Kopitar, as well as talented young players like second overall pick Quinton Byfield, the LA Kings are somewhat in no-man's land. Trading Pierre-Luc Dubois this offseason to the Washington Capitals in exchange for goaltender Darcy Kuemper, they will have more cap space to work with long term. The two time cup champions, unfortunately, look like they'll need a rebuild sooner rather than later.

We wish Drew Doughty a quick and easy recovery.