Anze Kopitar, the captain of the Kings, has announced his plans to retire following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.
Breaking News: Anze Kopitar Retires, Paving the Way for a New Era in Los Angeles Kings
In a significant turn of events for the Los Angeles Kings, their captain and the player widely regarded as the greatest in franchise history, Anze Kopitar, announced his retirement at the end of the 2025-26 season. Kopitar's decision, made amidst a season where he is on pace to break the Kings' all-time leading scorer record, marks the beginning of a new era for the team.
Kopitar, who was drafted 11th overall by the Kings in 2005, has been an integral part of the Kings' core memories. He helped lead the team to their two Stanley Cup wins in 2012 and 2014 and has stood out on a team that has had many greats, including Wayne Gretzky. With 1,278 points in 1,454 games played, Kopitar is second in franchise scoring, and he leads in assists with 838.
Despite the possibility of a Stanley Cup Final Game 7, Kopitar's mind is made up. His decision was influenced by spending more time with his family, a decision that resonates with the human side of a sports icon.
Kopitar's retirement leaves a significant void in the Kings' offensive line, but the team is not without promising prospects. Kevin Fiala, who has consistently scored 20+ goals in recent seasons and is projected to lead the team offensively in 2025-26, is expected to take over as the leading point scorer. Young players like Quinton Byfield and Alex Laferriere show potential to become top offensive contributors, forming a promising line with Fiala.
The Kings' roster also faces other important decisions. Adrian Kempe, who has led the team in points the last two seasons, is in the final year of his contract, and the Kings face a decision on whether to re-sign him to a long-term deal. Meanwhile, forward Corey Perry is expected to miss six to eight weeks after knee surgery.
Kopitar's announcement came hours after Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw announced his retirement, making it a significant day for sports fans in Los Angeles. As the Kings prepare for the preseason, starting on Sunday against the Ducks, and the regular season, which begins against the Colorado Avalanche on Oct. 7, the team will undoubtedly carry Kopitar's legacy forward.
The Kings' journey continues, and while the end of an era is bittersweet, the promise of a new one brings excitement and anticipation. Anze Kopitar's contributions to the Los Angeles Kings will never be forgotten, and his retirement marks a new chapter in the team's history.
