Los Angeles Kings retiring Anze Kopitar's No.11, unveil bronze statue

Anze Kopitar is Los Angeles Kings' royalty, and later on this season, he's going to receive his flowers, and feel the love from the organization, and the fan base.

The Kings have announced they will retire Kopitar's No.11 and unveil a bronze statue for the franchise cornerstone on February 24, 2027, against the Montreal Canadiens. Kopitar announced his retirement towards the end of last season, and feels it's surreal to see the organization honor him so soon after his playing days.

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. 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 spent 20 seasons as a King, and was one of the best two-way centers to ever play the game. With having his number retired, Kopitar's jersey will hang in the rafters with some of the NHL's best, including Wayne Gretzky, Marcel Dionne, Dave Taylor, Luc Robitaille, Rob Blake, Dustin Brown, and Rogie Vachon. 

Leading the Kings, Kopitar led the franchise to two Stanley Cups, he was a five-time All-Star, and is the franchise's all-time leader in games played (1,512), assists (864), and points (1,316). Congrats to the Kopitar family for the tremendous honor.