Doughty continues beef with Tkachuk: 'We both know who the better player is'

A fresh season hasn't changed the mind of Drew Doughty when it comes to his thoughts about Calgary Flames winger Matthew Tkachuk.

The Los Angeles Kings defender was asked about the status of his rivalry with the Flames' pest ahead of Tuesday's matchup, and he gave a blunt response.

"I think we both know who the better player is, so if he wants to compliment me first, I'll give him one back," Doughty said, per Kristen Anderson of the Calgary Sun.

Tkachuk was then asked if he respects Doughty and replied, "He's a good player and had a good career," according to Sportsnet's Eric Francis.

The feud between the two stars dates back to Tkachuk's rookie season in 2016-17 when he was suspended two games for an elbow to the head of the former Norris Trophy winner. The tension between the Flames and Kings has been high in each meeting since, and in March, Doughty said he has "no respect" for Tkachuk - a stance he believes is shared by other players across the league.

The two sides clash at 9:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday in Calgary.