Anze Kopitar’s NHL Journey
As Anze Kopitar approaches the final stretch of his NHL journey with just seven games left in the regular season, the reality of his impending retirement is becoming more pronounced. In a recent interview with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman prior to the Los Angeles Kings’ matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the long-time captain reflected on his storied career.
Reflections on Loyalty
Kopitar was asked if there had ever been a moment when he envisioned himself leaving the Kings, to which he responded with unwavering certainty:
“Honestly, I didn’t, no. I felt like L.A. was my team, it’s where I belong.”
His loyalty to the franchise, where he has played for two decades, is clear.
Hypothetical Scenarios
Despite his commitment to the Kings, Kopitar entertained a hypothetical scenario about other teams he might have liked to play for, revealing a soft spot for the Montreal Canadiens. He expressed fondness for the city and the experience of playing at the iconic Bell Centre, stating:
“If I really have to pick… probably Montreal.”
This admission highlights the vibrancy and historical significance of playing in Montreal, a sentiment shared by many NHL players.
Looking Ahead
Though it’s impossible for Kopitar to switch teams at this late stage in his career—and he has no intention of doing so—his speculation brings a fun dimension to his reflections. Meanwhile, the Canadiens find themselves performing well this season, sitting second in the Atlantic Division and ranking among the top teams in the league. However, they currently face a challenge in securing a strong second-line center, leading fans to dream about what it would be like to have the Kings’ all-time leading scorer on their roster.
As Kopitar prepares to conclude an illustrious career, he’s taking the opportunity to reminisce about his time in the league while also engaging in some light-hearted ‘what if’ discussions. As the end of his playing days approaches, Kopitar remains hopeful about leading his team to the playoffs one last time.
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