Los Angeles Kings’ Anze Kopitar Becomes Franchise’s All-Time Assists Leader
Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar made history on Sunday night as he became the franchise’s all-time assists leader. Kopitar recorded his 758th career assist, surpassing Hall of Famer Marcel Dionne, in the Kings’ 4-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche.
A Record-Breaking Season for Kopitar
This season has been filled with milestones for the Kings’ captain, and the 36-year-old Kopitar achieved his latest feat during the third period of the game. He initiated a tic-tac-toe passing play with Adrian Kempe, leading to Quinton Byfield’s second goal of the night. The crowd at Crypto.com Arena showed their appreciation with a standing ovation.
#11 becomes #1
With his helper on Quinton Byfield’s goal tonight, Anze Kopitar becomes the franchise leader in Assists #GoKingsGo pic.twitter.com/syH8Y0wnKl
— LA Kings (@LAKings) December 4, 2023
Kopitar accomplished this milestone in his 1,313th game, having played his entire 18-year career with the Los Angeles Kings. Marcel Dionne, whose No. 16 jersey hangs in the arena’s rafters, previously held the record with 757 assists in 921 games from 1975-87. Kopitar also surpassed other Kings legends such as Luc Robitaille, Dave Taylor, and Wayne Gretzky.
A Humbling Achievement
Reflecting on his achievement, Kopitar expressed his gratitude and humility. He stated, “Like a few before, it’ll take a little time to set in. Sometimes you look at that list and the names that are on there, it makes it very surreal to just be able to be on the same page with those guys. I guess now passing them, it’s very surreal. Very humbling feeling obviously. This has been my home for quite a while. I’m pretty much speechless.”
Kopitar’s Impressive Career
Kopitar’s record-breaking assist is just one of many accomplishments throughout his career. Earlier this season, he surpassed former teammate Dustin Brown for the all-time games played mark. Additionally, on November 8, he scored his 400th career goal in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Los Angeles Kings coach Todd McLellan praised Kopitar, describing him as a champion and a future Hall of Famer. McLellan emphasized Kopitar’s impact as a teaching tool for younger players and expressed hope for more records to come.
A Versatile Player
Known for his clean and disciplined style of play, Kopitar is not only a top defensive forward but also a highly effective offensive player. This season, he has contributed 10 goals and 10 assists in 21 games for the Kings. Throughout his career, he has consistently scored 60 points or more in 14 different seasons.
Looking Ahead
Kopitar’s contract extension with the Kings ensures that he will remain with the team for this season and the next two. With 1,161 points to his name, he has a chance to surpass Dionne’s team record of 1,307 points.
Teammate Jordan Spence expressed his admiration for Kopitar’s leadership and the honor of playing alongside him. He said, “Being the leader in all-time assists, that’s really cool.”
Required Reading
(Photo: Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today)