An emotional Anze Kopitar announces that this will be his final season in the NHL

Los Angeles Kings captain Anze Kopitar has just announced that this upcoming season will be his final season in the NHL and that he will be retiring from professional hockey next offseason.

The 38 year old forward cites wanting to be home with his family during his children's pivotal teenage years. "They deserve their Dad to be more present... we have a figure skater and a hockey player here on our hands, so I want to be present for them and to be at their competitions and their games and be at home with my wife to make sure everything runs as smoothly as it should."

Asked if Kopitar might change his mind if the Kings have a successful season, Kopitar says no. He's done.

"My mind is made up. It's a difficult decision and I will be 100% of my energy into this final season... I want to leave the game with a positive mindset."

The two time Stanley Cup champion has been the Kings' captain since 2016 and has amassed a significant collection of individual awards. He's a two time Selke Trophy winner, a three time Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner, a five time NHL All-Star and was a Hart Trophy nominee in 2018. Just an outstanding career for one of hockey's all-time greats.

Take a bow, Kopi!

For the full video of the announcement, click below: