After a long, protracted negotiation, the Los Angeles Kings announced on Saturday star center Anze Kopitar has signed a an eight-year contract extension.
Los Angeles Kings sign Anze Kopitar to massive 8-year, $80 million contract extension
One of hockey’s best centers is staying put.
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Kopitar’s new deal will pay him $80 million through the 2023-24 season, with the totals declining from $14 million in his first year down to $7 million as the contract expires. His contract also has a full no movement clause for the first four years, meaning L.A. can’t trade him anywhere or send him to the minors without his consent. According to reports, the final four years of his deal also include some measure of a no trade clause.
Kopitar's salary makes him the highest-paid player in the league, according to General Fanager. His $10,000,000 cap hit is third-highest behind Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks.
The 28-year-old center has spent his whole career with the Kings, amassing 230 goals and 645 points in 725 games. He’s also been a nominee for the Selke Trophy as the league’s best defensive forward twice.
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