NEWARK, N.J. – Anze Kopitar cemented his legacy as a Los Angeles Kings icon on Saturday night, surpassing Marcel Dionne to become the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Despite the Kings falling to the New Jersey Devils 6-4, the evening was marked by a historic achievement for the Slovenian center, reaching 1,308 career points in 1,505 games.
For over 45 years, Marcel Dionne held the Kings’ scoring record with 1,307 points, a reign that began in 1975 and lasted until Kopitar’s two-goal performance against the Devils. The moment was a testament to Kopitar’s consistent excellence and dedication to the Kings organization, having been drafted by Los Angeles in the first round of the 2005 NHL Draft (No. 11) and spending his entire NHL career with the team. This milestone underscores Kopitar’s impact on the franchise and his place among hockey’s greats.
Kopitar’s Record-Breaking Night
Kopitar’s first goal of the night came at 4:15 of the second period, a power-play deflection that brought the Kings within one goal of the Devils. His historic second goal, similarly on the power play, arrived at 13:42 of the third period, tying the game 4-4 and officially surpassing Dionne’s longstanding record. The goal, a one-time shot from a cross-ice pass from Artemi Panarin, was met with a jubilant celebration from his teammates, who mobbed him on the ice. The assists on both goals came from Brandt Clarke and Panarin.
While Kopitar’s achievement was the highlight of the night, the Devils ultimately prevailed. Jack Hughes scored the game-winning goal for New Jersey at 17:31 of the third period, and Timo Meier added an empty-net goal with just eight seconds remaining to seal the 6-4 victory. Despite the loss, the focus remained on Kopitar’s historic accomplishment.
A Legacy Among Kings Legends
Kopitar’s 1,308 points place him atop a list of Kings legends. Luc Robitaille, the team’s current president, ranks second with 1,154 points, followed by Dave Taylor (1,069) and Wayne Gretzky (918). This context highlights the magnitude of Kopitar’s achievement and his position within the Kings’ storied history. Marcel Dionne, reached from his home in Niagara Falls, Ontario, praised Kopitar’s consistent effort and two-way play, stating he would “never have to worry about Kopitar” if he had a team. NHL.com
Dionne himself amassed 731 goals and 757 assists for 921 points in 921 games with the Kings between 1975-87. Kopitar, now in his 20th and final NHL season, has scored all 1,308 of his points with the Kings, reaching the 10-goal mark for the season with his two goals against the Devils. The New York Times
Kopitar’s career has been decorated with accolades, including two Stanley Cup championships, two Frank J. Selke Trophies, and three Lady Byng Trophies. He announced before the season that he would retire at its conclusion, bringing an conclude to a remarkable career that began on October 6, 2006.
As Kopitar approaches the end of his illustrious career, his impact on the Los Angeles Kings and the sport of hockey will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to reach. The Kings, while falling short in this particular contest, will look to build on Kopitar’s legacy as they navigate the remainder of the season.
What does this historic achievement mean for Kopitar’s legacy and the future of the Los Angeles Kings? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
