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Kings defensemen understand they need to contribute more offensively and are excited for the chance to prove it on the ice

Drew Doughty is excited. At the end of last season, he didn’t hide from what he felt was a season that was not up to his own standards, as an individual or as a team. Whether this season will be…

By Zach Dooley For LAKingsInsider.com · LA Kings Insider

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 5:04 PM

Key Things to Know

Los Angeles Kings defensemen are embracing systematic changes to generate more offensive production this season.
The Kings finished last in the NHL in defensemen goals and 30th in defensemen points during the 2025-26 season.
Head coach Peter Laviolette emphasized subtle, collective improvements rather than drastic individual stylistic changes.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Los Angeles Kings defensemen are preparing to take on a larger offensive role this season through increased blueline activation. Veteran Drew Doughty and fellow blueliners Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin expressed excitement regarding systematic changes designed to create more scoring chances, following a 2025-26 campaign where the Kings ranked last in the NHL in goals scored by defensemen.

Head coach Peter Laviolette noted that the adjustments will be subtle rather than drastic, aiming to preserve the team's strong 5-on-5 defensive play. Zach Dooley reports that the Kings hope to strike a balance between aggressive instincts and defensive structure as their regular season begins.

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