As Drew Doughty nears his return to the Los Angeles Kings‘ lineup, the star defenceman also hopes to represent Canada again.
Doughty, who has yet to play this year after fracturing his ankle during a pre-season game, spoke to reporters following Sunday’s practice in Detroit as the Kings prepare to face the Red Wings on Monday night.
When asked about the upcoming break in the NHL schedule due to the 4 Nations Face-Off, Doughty discussed his desire to play for Canada in the tournament.
“I’m still hoping I have that outside chance of playing in that 4 Nations,” Doughty said. “I don’t want to break, I want to play, so we’ll see what happens.”
The 4 Nations Face-Off, which is set to run Feb. 12-20 in Montreal and Boston, is the first best-on-best international event since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.
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4 Nations Face-Off
With the inaugural edition of the 4 Nations Face-Off fast approaching, be sure to catch up on all the latest news about the highly-anticipated best-on-best event. Puck drops on Feb. 12, 2025, on Sportsnet.
A spot on Team Canada’s defence opened up Sunday after the Vegas Golden Knights announced Alex Pietrangelo has withdrawn from the tournament “to tend to an ailment and prepare for the remainder of the regular season.”
Doughty helped Canada win the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and capture gold medals at the 2010 and 2014 Olympics.
The 35-year-old from London, Ont., skated in a full-contact jersey last week and has joined the team on its five-game road trip that began Saturday with a 3-2 overtime loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Doughty feels he’s ready but understands the team wants to ensure he’s 100 per cent before returning to action.
“I would have loved to have played already so I get it. I just really want to play, so I’m frustrated, to be honest,” Doughty said. “I’ll play eventually. What’s an extra couple of games?”
The Kings are third in the Pacific Division with a 26-14-6 record.
