The Anze Kopitar era is coming to an end for the Los Angeles Kings. Jason Gregor of the “DFO Rundown Podcast” announced that the 2025-26 season will be Kopitar’s last in Los Angeles. “People in LA are reporting that this will be Kopitar’s last season,” Gregor said on the Pacific Division Deep Dive episode. “He’s not signing an extension.”
Kopitar is entering his 20th NHL season. He’s played 19 consecutive years for the Kings, winning two Stanley Cups, two Selke Trophies, three Lady Byng Awards and one Mark Messier Leadership Award. Kopitar leads all Kings players in games played (1,454) and assists (838). He’s third all-time among Kings in goals (440) and second all-time in points (1,278).
Kopitar is the first Slovenian to play in the NHL. He led his team in scoring 15 of 19 career season and has captained the team since 2015-16. The smart-minded center is widely regarded as one of the best two-way players of all time in the NHL.
No News on Retirement for Kopitar
It remains to be seen whether this will be Kopitar’s last season in the NHL. Having said that, he’ll be 38 when the 2025-26 season ends. The fact that Jonathan Toews, 37, managed to secure a one-year contract with the Winnipeg Jets suggests potential suitors for Kopitar.
Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are searching for depth help, could find plenty of room for Kopitar. Should he choose to stick around in the NHL, he’ll have a variety of options at his disposal.
Kings Taking Slow, Steady Approach with Kopitar
When asked about a potential extension, new general manager Ken Holland opted for a deliberate approach.
“Anze was still in town when I was announced as GM, so I spoke to him then, but not about that—just about the team,” Holland said. I know he’s going into the last year of his contract, and I think more so when he comes back for training camp, I’ll start talking to Pat Brisson (Kopitar’s agent). Obviously, I’m hoping he wants to stay and wants to play longer.”
“I didn’t think it was appropriate to be announced one day and then start asking him about that. He’s one of the greatest players in the history of this franchise and still has an amazing impact here on and off the ice. So, hopefully we as a team can build something here, have a great season, and he wants to continue to be part of it.”
Holland has a history of taking contract negotiations one day at a time. He ushered in Connor McDavid’s extension at a deliberate pace. During his time with the Detroit Red Wings, he often delayed extensions to build leverage. His approach to Kopitar follows a similar strategy.
Holland’s comments and Gregor’s report appear to be at odds with one another. Kopitar’s two-year contract comes to an end on July 1st, 2026. Whether he remains in the NHL or chooses to retire remains to be seen. Kopitar just needs 40 points next season to lead the Kings franchise in scoring and just eight goals to lead the franchise in goals.
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