Drew Doughty ’s long-awaited return to the Los Angeles Kings became imminent this week. The anticipation of the future Hall of Fame defenseman’s first game this season was such that Jim Hiller brought some levity to end a downbeat media session after a one-sided loss to Pittsburgh on Monday.

Defenseman Drew Doughty has been activated from injured reserve by the Los Angeles Kings ahead of his season debut against the Florida Panthers.

Drew Doughty is edging closer to rejoining the Los Angeles Kings lineup. The veteran defenseman returned to practice on Monday, his first time on the ice since breaking his ankle during a preseason collision in September.