Kopitar joins Wayne Gretzky as the only Kings players to win the honor, which recognizes sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct and ability, multiple times.
Anze Kopitar, the Kings’ captain and longest-tenured player, won the NHL’s Lady Byng Trophy on Monday, awarded to the most sportsmanlike and gentlemanly player who combined his exemplary conduct with excellent performance as voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.
Entering the final season of his contract, Kopitar, 35, has shown few signs of falling off at an age when most players generally settle into a reduced role. Last season he led the Kings in scoring, something he’s done in all but two seasons during his career, and was their top faceoff option as well. Combined with his physical strength, defensive acumen and calming presence, Kopitar was on the ice in virtually every key situation.
“First and foremost, congratulations to Jack and Brayden for being nominated. It was very well-deserved and I’m sure you guys will win a bunch of these in the future,” Kopitar said during his acceptance speech. The Oilers’ captain led the league with 64 goals, 89 assists and 153 points – the highest point total since Pittsburgh Penguins legend Mario Lemieux had 161 in 1995-96.
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