Anze Kopitar Bids Farewell After 20 Seasons with the Kings
Anze Kopitar, the longtime captain of the Los Angeles Kings, has officially announced that this season—his 20th in the NHL—will be his last. The 38-year-old center, who has been the face of the franchise for nearly two decades, shared the emotional news alongside his wife and two children in El Segundo, California. He explained that after long conversations with his family, the decision was made with both a heavy heart and a sense of peace. For him, it is time to step away from the rink and be more present as a husband and father.
Kopitar’s career is nothing short of remarkable. Drafted 11th overall in 2005, he became the first player from Slovenia to skate in the NHL. From that point forward, he never looked back. Every game of his career has been played in a Kings jersey, a rare feat in modern professional sports. His name is etched across the franchise record books: first in games played, first in assists, second in total points, and among the leaders in goals. On the league level, he has cracked the NHL’s top 40 all-time in points and sits in the top 30 for assists.
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Of course, his resume is not just about numbers. Kopitar was instrumental in Los Angeles’ two Stanley Cup victories in 2012 and 2014. In both championship runs, he led or tied for the playoff scoring lead, proving himself as a clutch performer when it mattered most. Though he never claimed a Conn Smythe Trophy, his presence was undeniable, and his ability to elevate his game under pressure left a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike.
His accolades further cement his legacy. Two Selke Trophies recognized him as one of the best defensive forwards in the game. Three Lady Byng Trophies highlighted his sportsmanship and discipline, including one season in which he was penalized only twice. He also earned the Mark Messier Leadership Award, underscoring his reputation as a respected leader on and off the ice. Throughout his career, he embodied both grace and grit, blending a powerful 6-foot-3 frame with the finesse and vision of an elite playmaker.
Looking ahead, Kopitar shared that his family will return to Slovenia once he hangs up his skates. It’s where he grew up, where his parents still live, and where his children love to spend their summers. For him, it’s a chance to breathe, reflect, and eventually decide what comes next.
Still, before the curtain falls, one more season awaits. Kopitar is determined to give everything he has left, motivated by the possibility of one final playoff run and maybe even another Stanley Cup. As he put it, the memories of the past are special, but there’s still one more year to play, one more year to lead, and one more chance to compete at the highest level.
For Kings fans, it truly is the end of an era—but also the celebration of a career that defined a generation of hockey in Los Angeles.
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