Anze Kopitar, the beloved captain of the Kings, retired after a remarkable 20-year career, marked by two Stanley Cup victories and a franchise-record in games played. He was selected with the No. 11 pick in the 2005 NHL Draft and quickly became a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Kings roster.
Kopitar’s NHL career ended after he played 1,521 games for the Kings. During that time, he scored a total of 1,316 points, including 452 goals and 864 assists. He served as captain since 2016 and led his team to Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014.
His final game took place on April 26, 2026. The Kings faced the Colorado Avalanche in Game 4 of the first round of the NHL playoffs. They lost that game 5-1, resulting in a sweep. Kopitar had played in 107 playoff games for the Kings, scoring an impressive 89 points.
In September 2025, Kopitar announced his retirement. He reflected on his career saying, “It’s been one hell of a ride for 20 years. The good, the bad and the ugly. Not the way we wanted to go out, but it happened, and we got to live with it.” His last goal was scored on March 28, 2026.
Throughout this past season, opposing teams honored him with tributes and ovations. Brent Burns praised him as “a special guy on and off the ice with what he’s done and what he’s meant to this city.” Drew Doughty expressed his admiration as well: “I’m trying not to think about it right now, but man, he had an unbelievable career.”
Kopitar’s impact on hockey will be felt for years to come. His leadership and skill defined an era for the Kings. Fans will remember him not just for his statistics but for his dedication to the game.
As his teammates move forward into a new chapter without him, they carry forward his legacy. The Kings will need to fill the void left by their captain as they prepare for future seasons.
