Anže Kopitar Returns to Kings’ Lineup
Anže Kopitar during a King’s game 2023-2024 season. Photo credits: Jenn G.
Written By Gina Anton
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Kings welcomed back team captain Anže Kopitar on January 31, 2026, ending an 11-game absence due to an upper-body injury and instantly injecting veteran leadership back into their lineup.
Kopitar, 38, had been sidelined since a collision in a game on January 5 against the Minnesota Wild, exiting early with an upper-body injury that forced him onto injured reserve. His return came just in time for a road matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers, where Los Angeles claimed a 3-2 overtime victory, powered by Quinton Byfield’s game-winning goal.
Without Kopitar, the Kings went 4-3-3 in his 11 missed games, struggling to maintain consistency down the middle and often looking overmatched against deeper defensive centers. Besides his offensive contributions, Kopitar’s value has always extended beyond the scoresheet, commanding crucial faceoffs, anchoring both the power play and penalty kill, and serving as a stabilizing two-way presence.
During that stretch, the Kings slipped in the Pacific Division standings, and their playoff outlook dimmed somewhat as they fought to stay above the cut line.
Kopitar’s return couldn’t come at a more pivotal moment. With the Stanley Cup Playoffs approaching, having their captain back strengthens Los Angeles in several key areas:
Faceoffs & possession: Kopitar consistently ranks among the team’s best at the dot, crucial in tight playoff games where possession can dictate momentum.
Leadership: In his potential final season, Kopitar’s voice in the locker room and on the bench provides invaluable guidance for a roster blending veterans and emerging young talent.
Defensive stability: Kopitar’s two-way game helps neutralize opposing top lines, which is a necessity in postseason hockey.
While his first game back showed some rust with limited shots and modest ice time, the long-term benefits should quickly outweigh the short adjustment period.
If Kopitar can return to his usual form and stay healthy down the stretch, he gives the Kings a legitimate boost in their effort to secure a playoff spot and hold off rivals in a tightly packed Western Conference.
