In a moment that reverberated through the NHL and the sports landscape of Los Angeles, Kings captain Anze Kopitar announced his intention to retire following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. The declaration, made during a news conference alongside his family at the first practice of training camp, marks the impending end of an illustrious 20-year career spent entirely with the silver and black.
At 38 years old, Kopitar, a Slovenian center, has been the very heart and soul of the Los Angeles Kings since his NHL debut in October 2006. His decision, while deeply personal and driven by a desire to spend more time with his wife and soon-to-be-teenage children, comes as he continues to perform at an elite level, having posted 21 goals and 46 assists just last season. This isn`t a fading star limping to the finish line; it`s a calculated, graceful exit from the pinnacle of professional hockey.
A Legacy Etched in Silver and Black
Kopitar`s tenure with the Kings is more than just a long career; it`s a testament to loyalty and consistent excellence. In an era where player movement is common, his dedication to a single franchise for two decades is a rarity, a professional marriage that has brought immense success.
His impressive resume includes:
- Two Stanley Cups (2012, 2014) – the only championships in franchise history.
- Five NHL All-Star selections.
- Two Selke Trophies, awarded to the NHL’s best defensive forward, highlighting his exceptional two-way play.
- Three Lady Byng Trophies for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct, a nod to his clean yet competitive style.
- The Kings’ franchise leader in games played with 1,454.
- Second-leading scorer in franchise history, just 29 points shy of Marcel Dionne’s all-time record.
- Leading scorer for the Kings in an astounding 15 of his 19 seasons.
- Captain of the team since 2016, a role he has embodied with quiet leadership and unwavering commitment.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Kopitar stated:
“For me, I always looked at LA as my team, as my home… We always felt extremely comfortable here, so it didn’t really cross my mind to even think or explore to go anywhere else.”
This sentiment underscores the profound connection he forged with the city and its fans, a bond strengthened by those historic Stanley Cup victories.
The Art of the Timely Exit
Why announce such a momentous decision with an entire season and a half still to play? Kopitar’s rationale speaks volumes about his character and leadership.
“I want to get this out of the way now to where I’m not a distraction for the team… the last thing I want to do is take any attention away from the team and put it on myself.”
It`s a move typical of a captain who consistently puts the team first, ensuring his personal news doesn`t overshadow critical moments or potential playoff runs. It clears the air, allowing him and the team to focus squarely on the immediate future.
And what a future he envisions for his team. Despite four consecutive first-round exits in the playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers, Kopitar remains optimistic. With new general manager Ken Holland making strategic additions to a core that tied franchise records for wins (48) and points (105) last season, Kopitar believes the Kings are “a better team than we were last year.” His final season will be driven by a strong desire to compete at the highest level, aiming to help his team break through that playoff barrier.
Beyond the Rink: Family and New Horizons
The decision to retire is not a reflection of diminished passion for the game, but rather a reordering of priorities. Kopitar plans to relocate his family back to Slovenia, seeking to be a more present father for his children, a figure skater and a budding hockey player. “I want to be present for them, to be at their competitions and their games,” he affirmed, painting a picture of a devoted family man ready for his next chapter.
In a delightful twist of fate, Kopitar`s announcement coincided with another Los Angeles sports legend, Clayton Kershaw of the Dodgers, revealing his impending retirement. “Must have been something in the universe for us to decide to do it on the same day,” Kopitar quipped, a moment of shared humanity between two titans who defined their respective franchises for decades.
As Anze Kopitar prepares for his final chapter with the Los Angeles Kings, the hockey world will undoubtedly reflect on a career defined by unparalleled consistency, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication. His final season will not just be another year of hockey; it will be a farewell tour for a true icon, a chance for fans to celebrate one of the most impactful players to ever don the Kings` jersey, and a leader who understands the value of a well-timed exit.
