Full Breakdown
Anže Kopitar Ends Two-Decade Tenure with Los Angeles Kings After Avalanche Sweep
4/28/2026, 6:09:46 AM
End of an Era: Kopitar’s Final Game
On April 26 2026, the Los Angeles Kings lost 5-1 to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 4 of the first-round series, completing a sweep and marking the final NHL shift for captain Anže Kopitar, who announced his retirement after a 20-year career spent entirely with Los Angeles.
Career Highlights
Drafted 11th overall in 2005, Kopitar became the Kings’ captain in 2016-17 and helped win Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014. He earned Selke Trophies in 2016 and 2018, two Lady Byng Awards, and holds franchise records for games (1,521), points (1,316) and assists (864). He logged over 18 minutes per game in his final appearance and missed fewer than 30 games due to injury over two decades.
Key Game Statistics
The series ended 4-0; Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon scored twice, including a power-play goal, and Cale Makar added a second-period goal. Kings goaltender Scott Wedgewood stopped 24 shots for a .950 save percentage. Kopitar’s career totals stand at 1,521 games, 1,316 points, 452 goals, 864 assists, two Selke Trophies and two Stanley Cups.
Impact on the Kings and Slovenia
Kopitar’s exit removes a two-way centre who combined scoring and defensive play, leaving the Kings without a comparable leader and prompting a rebuilding phase. In Slovenia, his career sparked a surge in youth participation, dubbed the “Kopitar Effect,” and cemented his status as the nation’s most prominent hockey figure.
Official Statements & Responses
In his post-game press conference, Kopitar expressed gratitude and noted the emotional weight of his final game. General manager Rob Blake said the club will retire number 11 as soon as league rules allow. Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog called Kopitar “the ultimate pro.” Fans gave standing ovations and chanted “Thank you, Kopi!” during the ceremony.
Conflicting Reports
One source lists Kopitar’s regular-season games as “over 1,400,” while another records 1,521; both agree on 1,316 career points.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I gave this city everything I had, and in return, this city gave me a home.” — Anže Kopitar, retiring captain
- “I’ve never experienced that emotion. There’s always a next year. Now it’s done.” — Anže Kopitar, post-game press conference
- “the ultimate pro,” — Gabriel Landeskog, Avalanche captain
- “as soon as the rules allow,” — Rob Blake, Kings general manager
What’s Next for Los Angeles
The Kings must fill the centre vacancy, evaluate prospects such as Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala, and consider roster moves in the offseason. The franchise plans to retire Kopitar’s number when permitted, while Kopitar looks toward family time and possible involvement in Slovenian hockey development.
