Kings legend Anze Kopitar's story comes to an end – the conclusion was unusually harsh

The Los Angeles Kings’ season came to a harsh end as the Colorado Avalanche crushed the team in the first round of the NHL playoffs with a score of 5–1. At the same time, the incredible career of Kings captain Anze Kopitar also came to a close.

The Kings lost the series 0–4, and there was no excitement in the deciding game. In previous encounters, Los Angeles had managed to keep the game tight by clogging the neutral zone and limiting Colorado’s scoring chances, but in the final battle, the defense completely collapsed. There was no doubt about the superiority.

A touching moment was witnessed at the Kings’ home arena as the final seconds of the third period ticked down. The crowd rose to honor their beloved captain, and “Thank you Kopi” chants filled the arena.

The 38-year-old Slovenian arrived at the press conference with his two children.

– I think they are extremely happy because now they get their dad, Kopitar said.

Kopitar’s Kings career lasted an astonishing 20 seasons and 1521 games. He scored a total of 1316 points.

The forward’s list of achievements is long. Throughout his career, he won two Stanley Cups, two awards as the NHL’s best defensive forward, and three Lady Byng trophies for sportsmanship.