Sidney Crosby gifts Kings' superstar Anze Kopitar a signed Penguins jersey after likely final clash [MUST SEE]

Sidney Crosby and Anze Kopitar shared a special moment after Sunday’s game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the LA Kings. After Los Angeles beat Pittsburgh 3-2, Crosby went to the Kings’ locker room to visit Kopitar. He gave Kopitar a signed Penguins jersey, and the two shared a hug.

The Kings posted the video on X with the caption:

"One last time for these two @NHL legends 🤝."

Both stars were drafted in the first round of the 2005 NHL Draft, and it was likely their final game against each other. Anze Kopitar, who is 38, announced in September that this would be his last NHL season. He was drafted 11th overall and has played all 20 seasons in Los Angeles.

Kopitar has helped the Kings win two Stanley Cups, in 2012 and 2014. He remains the team’s captain and continues to lead both on and off the ice. His calm and steady play has made him one of the most respected players in the league.

Sidney Crosby, also 38, is still performing at a high level in his 21st NHL season. He has 11 goals and 9 assists in 17 games this season. Crosby continues to lead the Penguins in scoring and remains strong on the power play. He has been one of the most consistent players in the league for many years. Crosby’s leadership and hard work have kept Pittsburgh competitive this season with a 9-5-3 record.

The moment between Crosby and Anze Kopitar showed mutual respect between two longtime captains. It was a simple but meaningful way to mark the end of a shared era in hockey.

Anze Kopitar talked about retirement in September

Anze Kopitar announced in late August that this will be his final NHL season. The King's captain spoke alongside his wife and two children in El Segundo, California. He said the decision came after many talks with his family.

"After lots and lots of thinking, I’ve decided that this year is going to be my last year playing in the NHL," Kopitar said. "With a heavy heart obviously, I’ve accepted that decision."

Kopitar wants to spend more time at home after 20 years in the league.

"These guys (wife and children) that are sitting here with me," Kopitar said. "...and now they deserve a husband and a dad to be home and present ... I want to be as present as I can be."

Anze Kopitar hopes to finish his career by helping the Kings make another playoff run. He has scored eight goals and has helped the Kings with a record of 7-5-4.

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Edited by Ankit Kumar