The 11th overall pick in the 2005 NHL entry draft, Anze Kopitar's NHL journey came to an end after two decades. The fans present at the Crypto.com Arena for the Los Angeles Kings vs Colorado Avalanche face-off ensured to gift Kopitar an emotional and unforgettable farewell.

In the video doing rounds on the internet, on Sunday, April 26, at the end of the game, Kopitar skated to center ice. He took a deep breath and then waved to his fans with gratitude as he took in one last standing ovation.

They kept chanting 'Thank you Kopi' while opponents, and even referees, applauded him. The tribute continued as his teammates knocked their sticks on the ice, guiding him to the bench and into the tunnel one last time.

Earlier, the Kings veteran announced in September 2025 that the 2025-26 NHL season would be his last.

"I want to get this out of the way now, where I'm not a distraction for the team," he said during a news conference back in September.

Finally, the day came seven months later when the Kings lost Game 4 against the Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the playoffs.

After his final game with the Los Angeles Kings, Kopitar emotionally reflected on spending 20 memorable years. He shared heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering support throughout his career.

“It was hard to keep it together, really,” Kopitar said. “Being here for 20 years, more than half of my lifetime, it’s extremely special. I really appreciate the fans: they've been behind me personally, they've been behind the team for all those years.”

An opponent player, Brent Burns, also talked about Kopitar and his contribution to the Kings franchise.

“He’s a special guy on and off the ice with what he’s done and what he’s meant to this city,” said Avalanche defenseman Brent Burns.

Even though Kopitar's career ended on a bittersweet note, the Kings' 5-1 loss to the powerhouse Avalanche, he has left his mark on NHL history.

A Look Back at The Career and Achievements of Anze Kopitar

Since being selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2005 NHL Draft, Kopitar has stayed committed to the same team over two decades.

He played a total of 1521 games and scored 1316 points. That includes 452 goals and 864 assists. 

Kopitar faced a tough season statistically, managing just 12 goals and 26 assists for 38 points in 67 games, career lows across the board. He was also blanked in four playoff games as the Avalanche stifled his team.

But he still etched his name in franchise history by passing Marcel Dionne in the Kings’ scoring list.

In terms of records, he ranks third in franchise history in goals, behind only legends Luc Robitaille and Marcel Dionne. When it comes to his trophy case, it includes two Stanley Cup titles in 2012 and 2014. Kopitar won the Lady Byng thrice.

Filling his shoes will be a very big challenge. Kopitar leaves behind a legacy defined by loyalty, excellence, and championships.

Share your thoughts on Kopitar's retirement.

Find more news at NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar