Kings Legend Anze Kopitar Happy With Retirement Decision

Los Angeles Kings icon Anze Kopitar expressed happiness with his decision to retire after 20 seasons in the NHL. At 37 years old, Kopitar concluded his illustrious career following the 2025-26 NHL season. Now 38 years old, the veteran forward attended Zdeno Chara's farewell game, 'Zee's Final Shift,' at the Pavol Demitra Ice Stadium in Trencin, Slovakia, on Friday.

While performing well in the match, Kopitar emphasized his satisfaction with his retirement choice. Speaking to NHL.com, Kopitar confirmed his decision to bid farewell to the NHL, acknowledging that he now has more family time and can attend his children's activities. The former Stanley Cup winner and two-time Selke Trophy winner, who played all 20 of his NHL seasons for the Kings, will likely be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility when he becomes eligible in 2029.