The Los Angeles Kings have recalled Samuel Helenius from the Ontario Reign as they struggle with a four-game losing streak and an overall decline in physicality. Despite Helenius' limited offensive output, he brings a physical presence with 80 hits this season, ensuring the Kings won't be easily pushed around. This move raises questions about the future of Tanner Jeannot, who has been ineffective with a 20-game goal drought.

Trevor Lewis, despite slumping metrics, remains in the lineup, indicating the Kings are sticking with veteran experience. Meanwhile, Brandt Clarke's playing time has dwindled since Drew Doughty's return, adding to the ongoing lineup scrutiny. Helenius's recall seems aimed at bolstering the bottom six, but it also highlights the Kings' broader struggles with lineup decisions and performance consistency.

Drew Doughty is currently listed as day-to-day due to a lower-body injury that sidelined him for the Los Angeles Kings' recent game against the Vancouver Canucks. This marks yet another setback for the veteran defenseman, who had only recently returned from a prolonged absence due to a broken ankle sustained in the preseason. In eight games played this season, Doughty has registered one goal and three assists while averaging nearly 26 minutes of ice time, showcasing his vital role on the Kings' blue line.

In contrast, the Canucks celebrated the return of star defenseman Quinn Hughes, who missed six games due to an undisclosed injury. Hughes, the NHL leader in assists among defensemen, rejoined the lineup, further bolstering the Canucks' chances as they push for a playoff spot. His performance will be instrumental in the team's quest to rise in the standings as they contend for postseason action.

The Los Angeles Kings' acquisition of Joel Edmundson for $3.85 million raised several eyebrows due to his injury history and the team's deep defensive roster. However, his performance has surpassed expectations, especially following Drew Doughty’s return. Pairing with Doughty, Edmundson has transformed into a key component of the Kings' defensive strategy, leading to a +20 rating and contributing 14 points in 51 games.

His adaptability has been evident, as he's seen an increase in ice time, averaging nearly 21 minutes per game in recent outings. The Kings’ management appears to have confidence in their top four defensive pairings, with Edmundson enhancing the team’s penalty kill, which has climbed to the league's top five. While his long-term impact remains uncertain, particularly regarding his contract and the development of younger defensemen like Brandt Clarke and Jordan Spence, the Kings seem poised to benefit in the short term.

In the NHL's limited schedule, focus on two compelling player prop bets: Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks and Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings. Celebrini has emerged as the team's key offensive player following Mikael Granlund's departure, consistently logging over 20 minutes of ice time. Despite facing the defensively stout Winnipeg Jets, Celebrini previously registered a goal and an assist against them.

Drew Doughty is also in the spotlight, offering a solid bet to score a point against the Vegas Golden Knights. Doughty, coming off a strong performance with three points last game, operates effectively at home where the Kings excel offensively. With both players in prime positions to contribute significantly, these prop picks are well worth considering.

Canada and the United States are set to clash in a high-stakes matchup at the 4 Nations Face-Off, a game charged with intensity and national pride. Veteran players like Drew Doughty and Dylan Larkin have expressed their excitement, noting the rivalry's historical significance. Canada will adjust its lineup, replacing injured Shea Theodore with Travis Sanheim and inserting Sam Bennett to add physicality. The atmosphere promises to be electric, especially in Montreal, where Canadian fans are expected to rally behind their team. Both sides aim for victory, as the top two teams will advance to the finals in Boston. With tensions high and stakes even higher, this showdown could be one for the ages.