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Tears in Los Angeles and the end of an era: the boy from Hrušica became an immortal NHL legend
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Tears in Los Angeles and the end of an era: the boy from Hrušica became an immortal NHL legend

From Večernji List · (5m ago) Croatian Positive tone

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Anže Kopitar's illustrious 20-season NHL career, primarily with the Los Angeles Kings, concluded with an emotional farewell after winning two Stanley Cups.
  • Kopitar's journey began in his native Slovenia, where his father, a former player and coach, fostered his love for hockey, even building a backyard rink.
  • After moving to Sweden at 16 to develop his skills, Kopitar was drafted 11th overall by the Kings in 2005, becoming the first Slovenian selected in the first round and embarking on a pioneering NHL career.

Večernji List (Croatia)

There was always next year, always... and now it's over.

— Anže KopitarReflecting on the end of his 20-season NHL career.

The farewell of Anže Kopitar from the NHL ice is more than just the end of a player's career; it marks the conclusion of an era and the cementing of a legend. For twenty seasons, Kopitar was the heart and soul of the Los Angeles Kings, a quiet leader who twice lifted the Stanley Cup and etched his name into hockey history.

His journey from the small Slovenian village of Hrušica, where his father, Matjaž, a respected hockey figure, nurtured his talent on a backyard rink, to the pinnacle of professional hockey is an inspiring testament to dedication and passion. This path, though predestined by his family's deep connection to the sport, was forged through relentless hard work and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Maybe you think you are ready, but when that day comes, you quickly realize that you are never fully ready for such a step.

— Anže KopitarRecalling his departure from Slovenia to Sweden at age 16.

The decision to move to Sweden at the age of 16, a significant sacrifice for a young teenager, was a pivotal moment. It was a necessary step for his development, hardening him and preparing him for the challenges ahead. His success in Sweden, leading to his selection as the top European prospect for the 2005 NHL draft, paved the way for his arrival in Los Angeles.

I was convinced that Columbus would choose me. When they called someone else, I felt terrible. You start to doubt, will anyone even take me?

— Anže KopitarDescribing his anxiety during the 2005 NHL draft before being selected by the Los Angeles Kings.

Being the first Slovenian drafted in the first round of the NHL draft, and the 11th overall pick by the Kings, was a historic achievement. Kopitar became "The First One," a pioneer not just for himself but for Slovenian hockey. His debut, marked by two goals against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, foreshadowed the extraordinary career that would follow, a career defined by skill, leadership, and an enduring legacy.

I played well in the first period and felt that I could compete with players like Pronger and Selanne. Then you...

— Anže KopitarRecounting his feelings during his NHL debut.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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