Los Angeles Kings legend Anže Kopitar will join franchise icons outside Crypto.com Arena, as the organization announced plans to erect a bronze statue honoring the two-time Stanley Cup champion and all-time franchise scoring leader. According to the Los Angeles Kings, the monument will be unveiled in Star Plaza, cementing Kopitar’s status alongside fellow franchise greats who shaped hockey in Southern California.
Statue Details and Star Plaza Placement
The monument will stand outside the downtown arena alongside existing statues of Lakers and Kings legends, according to ESPN. Kopitar’s bronze likeness captures a defining era for the franchise, which he captained to Stanley Cup titles in 2012 and 2014. The Star Plaza location places the center among Los Angeles sports royalty, recognizing a career that spans two decades entirely with the Kings.
Franchise Scoring Record and Career Milestones
Drafted 11th overall in the 2005 NHL Draft, Kopitar surpassed numerous franchise scoring milestones to become the Kings’ all-time points leader. According to National Hockey League records, the Slovenian forward has logged more than 1,200 career points in over 1,300 regular-season games. In addition to his two championship rings, Kopitar has earned the Frank J. Selke Trophy twice as the league’s best defensive forward and captured the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for sportsmanship.
Historical Context in Los Angeles Sports
Kopitar joins an exclusive group of athletes immortalized in bronze outside the venue formerly known as Staples Center. According to Crypto.com Arena management, the plaza features statues of basketball legends like Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, as well as hockey pioneers Luc Robitaille and Wayne Gretzky. Kopitar’s inclusion marks the first active-era recognition for a modern Kings pillar who bridged the championship era with the team’s ongoing transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Anže Kopitar statue be unveiled?
According to Los Angeles Kings announcements, specific timing for the Star Plaza unveiling ceremony will be announced by the team at a later date.
What are Anže Kopitar’s primary career achievements with the Kings?
Kopitar has won two Stanley Cups (2012, 2014), two Selke Trophies, and the Lady Byng Trophy, while establishing himself as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer.
Which other hockey players have statues outside Crypto.com Arena?
According to Crypto.com Arena, fellow Kings legends Luc Robitaille and Wayne Gretzky also have statues displayed in Star Plaza.
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