The Los Angeles Kings will retire former captain Anze Kopitar’s No. 11 jersey during the 2026-27 season and honor him with a statue outside of Crypto.com Arena.
Both events will happen prior to the Kings’ game against the visiting Montreal Canadiens on Feb. 24.
A two-time Stanley Cup champion with Los Angeles, Kopitar played 20 seasons with the Kings before retiring at the end of 2025-26 campaign.
“To have my number retired and a statue unveiled by the LA Kings is an incredible honor, and one that is difficult to put into words,” Kopitar said. “When I arrived in Los Angeles 21 years ago, I simply hoped to earn the opportunity to play in the NHL. I never imagined something like this. I have been fortunate to spend my entire career with one organization, surrounded by amazing teammates, coaches, staff and fans who have made this journey so special.
“I share this honor with everyone who has been part of it, especially my family, whose love and support have meant everything to me. I am truly grateful to be recognized in this way by an organization that has given me so much.”
Kopitar holds franchise records in goals (452), assists (864), points (1,316) and games played (1,521). He won the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward on two occasions (2016, 2018) and the Lady Byng Trophy three times (2016, 2023, 2025).
“Anze Kopitar has defined what it means to be a Los Angeles King for the past two decades,” Kings president Luc Robitaille said. “His leadership, consistency and commitment to excellence have helped shape the identity of our franchise, both on and off the ice. He has earned the respect of everyone who has had the opportunity to play with him, coach him or watch him compete.
“Anze’s legacy extends far beyond the records, awards and championships. He has inspired generations of Kings fans and left an indelible mark on our franchise, and the Los Angeles and Southern California community. We look forward to celebrating Anze, Ines and their family on what will be an unforgettable day in Kings history.”
Kopitar will become the eighth Kings player to have his number retired, joining Rob Blake (No. 4), Marcell Dionne (No. 16), Dave Taylor (No. 18), Robitaille (No. 20), Dustin Brown (No. 23), Rogie Vachon (No. 30) and Wayne Gretzky (No. 99).
Kopitar will be the fourth King to have a statue outside of Crypto.com Arena, joining Brown, Robitaille and Gretzky.
–Field Level Media
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