No East Coast Bias Here...

It can be difficult at times for athletes in California to capture the attention of the national media. Sure, players like Kobe and Manny are the exception...winning championships goes a long way. Without one, it can be a challenge. Just ask Adrian Gonzalez down in San Diego. He may be the best first baseman in baseball and his family members might be the only people that can pick him out of a line-up.

Here is Los Angeles...and now across North America...the coming out party for Drew Doughty continues.

Plenty of hockey experts were scratching their head when the 20 year old defenseman was named to the Canadian Olympic team back in December. He started the games in Vancouver as the 8th defenseman. He ended up being a leader in minutes played and left town with a gold medal.

His nomination for the Norris Trophy this morning puts an official stamp on what people in Los Angeles have been saying for almost two seasons now - this kid is a flat out stud. Good beyond his years.

NHL.com had this to say in the article announcing his nomination:

From All-Rookie Team member in 2008-09 to Norris Trophy finalist, it's been a remarkable ascent for the 20-year-old Doughty.

In 82 games this season, he had 16 goals, 43 assists and 59 points with a plus-20 rating. Among all League defensemen, Doughty was first in game-winning goals (5), second in power-play points (31), tied for second in goals and power-play goals (9), third in points, and tied for fifth in assists and power-play assists (22).
...

"His year has been spectacular through this season," coach Terry Murray said. "The points, the key situations, the fact that the team has moved up in the standings and is starting to get some recognition around the League.

"He's an anchor for us back there, and I think, right now, he's comparable, No. 1 and on the defensive part of the game, with plus/minus and minutes played."

Doughty has tough competition from Mike Green (Washington Capitals) and Duncan Keith (Chicago Blackhawks). The winner will be announced at the NHL Awards in Las Vegas this June.

Back in November we published 10 Tidbits on Doughty. If you missed it, click here to read. You'll get a look at his first ever hockey card - at the age of four! Plus, you'll get plenty of fun facts on the player you'll be hearing a lot more about in the years to come!

UPDATE: Doughty spoke to the media following the morning skate on 4/23/10:


The Mayor
www.twitter.com/Mayor119