NHL Star Anze Kopitar Eyes Montreal Canadiens Move

Kings captain discusses potential future beyond Los Angeles

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:52pm

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Los Angeles Kings captain Anze Kopitar, a celebrated NHL star known for his playmaking skills and successful career, has revealed the Montreal Canadiens as a potential destination once his time with the Kings comes to an end.

Why it matters

Kopitar's comments about the Canadiens raise speculation about the future of the Kings' roster and leadership, as well as potential shakeups in the NHL's Eastern Conference if the star center were to join one of the league's most historic franchises.

The details

In a recent interview, Kopitar, who has spent his entire 18-year NHL career with the Kings, acknowledged that the Canadiens could be an appealing option for him once his time in Los Angeles is up. The 34-year-old center cited the Canadiens' storied history and passionate fan base as factors that could draw him to Montreal.

  • Kopitar has played for the Los Angeles Kings since being drafted by the team in 2005.

The players

Anze Kopitar

The 34-year-old captain of the Los Angeles Kings, known for his elite playmaking skills and successful NHL career spanning nearly two decades.

Montreal Canadiens

One of the NHL's most historic franchises, based in Montreal, Quebec, that Kopitar has identified as a potential future destination.

Los Angeles Kings

The NHL team Kopitar has played for his entire professional career, serving as the team's captain.

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What they’re saying

“The Canadiens are a storied franchise with an incredible fan base. It's definitely something I would consider when my time in LA is up.”

— Anze Kopitar, Los Angeles Kings Captain

What’s next

Kopitar's contract with the Kings runs through the 2027-28 season, so any potential move to the Canadiens would likely not happen until at least 2028.

The takeaway

Kopitar's comments about the Canadiens highlight the fluidity of star player movement in the NHL, as even long-tenured captains like Kopitar may consider changing teams late in their careers to join historic franchises with passionate fan bases.