By LAFB Network,Ryan Dyrud

Copyright yardbarker

It’s a bit of a somber day for LA Kings fans, and LA Sports fans in general. Within hours of each other, Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw and Kings Captain Anze Kopitar announced that they would be retiring from their respective teams.

The MLB season is close to ending, so Kershaw’s announcement was met with a bit more brevity. We will still get a full season, and hopefully a final Stanley Cup run, from the great Anze Kopitar.

While nothing was official, Kopitar’s announcement was not a huge surprise, as he is entering the final year of his two-year contract; there were no signs of him seeking an extension.

LA Kings Legend Anze Kopitar To Retire After 2025-26 Season

This year will be Kopitar’s 20th season in the NHL, all with the LA Kings. He will likely go down as the greatest Kings player in franchise history.

He will leave behind some incredible accolades.

2 Stanley Cups

2 Frank J. Selke Trophies (Offensive player who demonstrates the best defensive skill)

3 Lady Byng Memorial Trophies (Sportsmanship and Conduct)

1 Mark Messier Leadership Award

5 All-Star Game Appearances

1,278 Career Points (And counting)

The first player from Slovenia to play in the NHL

During his retirement press conference, he said that he decided to make the announcement today so that he and the team could focus on the season ahead of them, instead of having the question linger over him all year.

The LA Kings are returning a playoff roster and will be one of the favorites to come out of the West and contend for a Stanley Cup. Nothing would be sweeter than sending Kopitar off into the sunset with his 3rd Stanley Cup Trophy.

In terms of LA Sports icons, he will go down as one of the best. He played his entire 20-year career with the same organization, bringing the team to national prominence and consistent competitiveness.

Where would you rank Anze Kopitar among Los Angeles sports legends? Comment below.