News:Anze Kopitar picked up his first goal on the postseason in the Kings' 4-3 win Monday.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar snapped a 20-game goal drought Monday that dated back to March 25. We'll see if his tally opens up the floodgates.
News:Anze Kopitar made it 14 straight games without a goal after failing to tally in Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Wild.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar's still been picking up assists at a steady pace, with 11 in his last 14 games, and has 41 points (10 goals, 31 assists) this season. He's far too talented for this to keep up, and is still getting enough scoring chances that the drought figures to end soon enough.
News:Anze Kopitar extended his scoring streak to four games with a goal and an assist in a 4-0 whitewashing of Phoenix on Monday night.
Analysis: There's only one sign of concern in his solid season (9-18-27 in 27 games): He isn't shooting anywhere near as often as he has in years past. Anze Kopitar generally averages about three shots per game, but this year's mark is only 1.7. He's making up for that with a sterling shooting percentage (19.6%, far above anything he's ever posted before), but it's possible that fortune will balance out if he doesn't start putting more pucks on net.
News:Anze Kopitar continued his sizzling scoring pace Saturday with a goal and an assist as Los Angeles overwhelmed Calgary on Saturday, 6-2.
Analysis: Through his first 13 games, he had nine points; in the ensuing nine games, he's posted four goals and nine helpers. He adds an important component of scoring stablity to any fantasy roster, as he's been held off the score sheet just six times all season.
News:Anze Kopitar scored his seventh goal of the season and added an assist in Tuesday's 6-4 victory over the Blues.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar started the season off slowly thanks to a knee injury, but has been looking more like himself of late, as he has three goals in his last six games.
News:Anze Kopitar extended his scoring streak to five games Saturday with an assist in a losing cause against Vancouver.
Analysis: He's the best scorer in a Los Angeles sweater; you should start him at every opportunity.
News:Anze Kopitar factored in both Los Angeles goals Wednesday and scored the game-winning tally in the third period against Detroit.
Analysis: In addition to getting better production from Anze Kopitar, the Kings are seeing more balanced offensive results from their secondary scoring options as well recently. Kopitar now has eight points (2 G, 6 A) over the last four games while delivering a plus-6 rating during that span.
News:Anze Kopitar assisted on three goals and was a plus-2 against the Ducks on Monday.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has seven points in his last five games, and 15 points in 16 contests on the season.
News:Anze Kopitar, who collected a goal and an assist Saturday, has points in 10 of his last 12 games.
Analysis: Saturday's two-point effort was his first multi-point game since January 26 but he's been a steady drip offensively this season.
News:Anze Kopitar notched his first two goals of the season in Saturday's 4-2 win over the Coyotes.
Analysis: The goals helped key the Kings to their first win of the season. Make sure you have him active -- he's a consistent point-per-game producer.
News:Anze Kopitar logged nearly 20 minutes of ice time in his return to the lineup Tuesday.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar didn't make much of an impact in his debut, registering no shots on goal, but there will be better days ahead for the uber-talented Kopitar.
News: The Kings activated Anze Kopitar (knee) from the non-roster list Tuesday, James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has not played since injuring his knee in early January, but he is ready for action after making it through Monday's practice without issue. Expect him to regain his centering spot on the Kings' top line.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) is expected to return Tuesday, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar was a full participant in Monday's practice and seems poised to rejoin the Kings barring any setbacks.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) will not play in Saturday's opener against Chicago, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar skated again Friday and continues to make progress but his absence Saturday shouldn't come as a surprise as it's been trending in that direction. He could be back in the lineup early next week.
Kings' Kopitar Unlikely For Opener Despite Progress
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) participated in some contact duties Thursday but remains doubtful for the season opener Saturday, the Los Angeles Times reports. "The doors are still not completely shut, but we'd much rather see me play the other 47 games or 46 than play this one and have a major setback. I'm feeling pretty good. I've had a couple of days of full practice with the team and it didn't blow up on me, didn't feel sore. So I guess I'm on the right track," Kopitar said.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar, who injured his knee on January 4, appears to be fully on schedule with the two to three week recovery period originally given. Don't expect to see him Saturday but he could available shortly thereafter barring any setbacks.
Kings' Kopitar Could Be Cleared For Contact Thursday
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) could be cleared for contact as soon as Thursday after getting through some drills in Wednesday's practice but still seems unlikely to be ready for the start of the season, the Los Angeles Times reports. "If there's any doubt, we're not going to play him," general manager Dean Lombardi said.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar echoed the sentiments of his general manager, adding "I want to play the rest of the season. I don't want to force it now. I'd rather make it 100% now and play for the rest of the season and be ready for the playoffs as opposed to forcing it now and having a major setback a little later on." Kopitar continues to make steady progress but expect the Kings to make sure he's ready before inserting him back into the lineup.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) was able to skate for about an hour prior to Tuesday's practice but still hasn't been cleared for contact, the Los Angeles Times reports. "You can call it steps or stages, but he hasn't had stops and starts," head coach Darryl Sutter said. "He hasn't had contact. It's one step at a time."
Analysis:Anze Kopitar continues to make steady progress but will miss a portion of the start of the season. He did get in 30 games overseas prior to the injury so should be able to ramp up quickly once he's recovered.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) was pleased with the way his knee responded after skating with the team in Monday's practice, the Los Angeles Times reports. "It felt good. We'll see how, day by day, how I progress. I wanted to get the turns in and the crossovers ... there's a little bit of discomfort. But to be honest, I thought it would be a little worse than it was," Kopitar said.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has progressed well so far and could return at the front end of his original timetable. He's still almost certain to miss some games early on, but could be back shortly if he continues to make steady progress. Sure, it's an abbreviated season, but don't let him fall very far in your drafts just because of this injury.
News:Anze Kopitar was able to skate with the Kings during Monday's practice while wearing a brace. While his sprained right knee is likely to keep him out of the season opener, he may not miss more time beyond that, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: While nothing is set in stone yet, the news is getting slightly better for the star center and perhaps he can return on the front end of his original injury timetable. He's probably a good gamble if you're willing to deal with a handful of missed games up front.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) did not skate in the team's first practice but hopes to be back on the ice soon. "You want to be on the ice with the guys, especially since it's been seven months of not seeing them. It's a little unfortunate, but I am pretty confident that I will be back out there pretty soon," Kopitar said.
Analysis: He is able to get treatment from the Kings' medical staff now that the lockout has ended and added that he hopes to be back on the ice in the next few days with the assistance of a knee brace. We'll have a better idea of his time frame once he's back on the ice but expect to be without his services for the start of the season.
News: GM Dean Lombardi indicates that Anze Kopitar (knee) is looking at a 2-3 week recovery period, Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Overall, it's good news that his sprained knee is not a serious issue, but with the NHL lockout settled and a shortened season around the corner, it seems likely that Anze Kopitar will miss some games out of the gate.
News: The Kings have confirmed that Anze Kopitar (knee) has suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain, Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Estimates for his return range from two-to-four weeks, but it sounds like Anze Kopitar is in danger of missing a handful of games once the regular season is underway.
Kings' Kopitar To Miss Time With Knee Injury; Possibly Out 2-3 Weeks
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) could miss two to three weeks with a sprained MCL but appears to have avoided an ACL injury, the Los Angeles Times reports. "The good news, at this point, is that it is not an ACL," general manager Dean Lombardi said.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar is expected back in LA on Wednesday and the Kings should have a better idea on his timetable then. He'll most certainly miss a portion of the start of the season but appears to have escaped a major injury at this point.
News:Anze Kopitar hurt his knee Saturday and could miss 3-4 weeks, Pro Hockey Magazine's Linus Hugosson reports.
Analysis: It sounds like the injury could threaten Anze Kopitar's status for the start of the season if the NHL lockout ends soon.
News:Anze Kopitar officially signed with Mora Ishockeyklubb of Sweden on Tuesday, NHL.com reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar will be joined on the Mora IK roster by his younger brother, Gasper. After a 76-point regular season, Kopitar was an integral part of the Kings' Stanley Cup run, recording 20 points in 20 postseason games.
News:Anze Kopitar is expected to sign a deal with a team in the Swedish league for the duration of the lockout, the LA Times reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar is expected to sign a deal with Mora IK which will allow him to sign for just the duration of the lockout so this doesn't figure to have any impact on his fantasy value when the lockout ends.
News:Anze Kopitar the game-winning goal at the 8:13 mark of overtime to lift the Kings past the Devils, 2-1, in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals on Wednesday.
Analysis: It was his seventh goal of the playoffs and third in his last four games. Anze Kopitar is having a very strong playoff run with 16 points and a plus-14 rating in 15 games.
News:Anze Kopitar picked up an assist in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals and has now tallied a point in four straight games.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has now registered a point in eight of the 10 games the Kings have played this postseason.
Kopitar Leads Kings With Two Goals In Game 2 Victory
News:Anze Kopitar snapped a two-game goal drought with a pair of goals Monday in the Kings' Game 2 win over St. Louis.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has scored just three goals so far in the playoffs, but the pair of goals gave the Kings a commanding 2-0 series lead as the series heads to Los Angeles.
News:Anze Kopitar fired five shots but couldn't find nylon in Saturday's Game 1 against St. Louis. He finished the night plus-1, but didn't make an appearance on the score sheet.
Analysis: That two straight bagels after he opened with four single-point playoff games. He's easily the Kings' best offensive forward, so keep sending him in.
News:Anze Kopitar scored his first goal of the NHL playoffs Wednesday night, but Los Angeles still fell to Vancouver 3-1.
Analysis: He's had a solid series with a goal and three assists through the first four games of the Western Conference quarterfinal matchup. Game 5 goes Sunday night in Vancouver.
News:Anze Kopitar picked up three assists Thursday to extend his points streak to five games.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar continues to spearhead the Kings' offensive attack and now has 11 points in his last five games to bring his season total to 76 points (25 goals, 51 assists). It's a bit of a down year for Kopitar, but he'll be key to the Kings' playoff run.
News:Anze Kopitar assisted all three of Los Angeles' goals Saturday nights as the Kings dropped a shootout decision to Minnesota. The five year veteran now has seven points in his last three contests.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar may not reach the 81 point standard he posted in 2010, but fantasy owners have to be pleased at how resilient the 24 year old has been yet again this year. Since entering the league in 2006, Kopitar has missed just 17 regular season games.
News:Anze Kopitar scored his 25th goal of the season Friday night as Los Angeles defeated Edmonton, 4-1. He also added an assist.
Analysis: After not scoring in three straight games, Anze Kopitar now has two straight multi-point nights and is a plus-5 in those two games. He'll continue to get big minutes down the stretch and Los Angeles will badly need his scoring if the team hopes to secure a playoff spot.
News:Anze Kopitar picked up two helpers Wednesday night as the Kings shut out the Flames 3-0.
Analysis: He had gone three straight games without a point coming into Wednesday night's action, two of which were losses. Anze Kopitar has picked up the pace though in the month of March, recording six goals, seven assists, and a plus-6 rating in 13 games.
News: The Bruins held Anze Kopitar to just one shot Saturday as the Kings fell at home, 4-2. Kopitar finished the night minus-2.
Analysis: That's back-to-back bagels after an 11-game string in which he posted 14 points. But the scoring touch will return; keep him active.
News:Anze Kopitar extended his scoring string to three games Saturday with a first-period goal against the Predators.
Analysis: With 10 games left on the slate, he has a shot at a third straight 70-point campaign, and remains the Kings' most prolific offensive threat, leading the team in both goals and assists.
News:Anze Kopitar picked up a goal and an assist Tuesday and has now picked up points in seven of his last eight games.
Analysis: It's been a bit of down year for Anze Kopitar, but he's making up for it at the moment, and he's reached 60 points (21 goals, 39 assists) on the season.
News:Anze Kopitar scored his 20th goal of the season Thursday in a loss to Columbus, pushing his points streak to five games.
Analysis: The Kings now have three star centers, but Anze Kopitar is still the best of the bunch, even if he's having a bit of an off year in which he's fallen short of the nearly point-per-game pace he established over the last two seasons.
News:Anze Kopitar slid home an empty-net goal in the waning seconds of the Kings' win over Anaheim on Saturday.
Analysis: He's now reached the 55-point mark for the offensively challenged Kings. He has somehow figured in one out of every three Los Angeles tallies over the course of the season.
News:Anze Kopitar scored a power-play goal Saturday in a 2-1 loss to Carolina.
Analysis: The goal is his 16th, a pace that should see him come close to matching last year's tally of 25. He has 46 points in 53 games but that's a bit disappointing given his point-per-game production in the previous two seasons. Still, he's a solid activation who's a threat for multiple points every time he skates.
News:Anze Kopitar generated the Kings' lone goal Saturday as they lost at home to Colorado, 3-1. His second-period marker, his 15th of the season, gave the Kings a temporary lead that they couldn't hold.
Analysis: In relatively shallow fantasy leagues, he's likely the Kings' only valuable forward (15-29-44 in 49 games). He got off to a hot start in October (14 points in 11 games), but has tailed off noticeably since then. He'll still probably top 70 points for the third season in a row.
News:Anze Kopitar was given a scheduled day off from practice Monday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has taken a couple of big hits in his last few games and the Kings simply decided to give him a break from Monday's practice. He's fully expected to lace up the skates Tuesday.
News:Anze Kopitar (knee) picked up an assist in 19:54 of action against Edmonton on Sunday.
Analysis: He was shaken up after a collision against the Flames on Saturday night, but his presence with the usual share of minutes the very next day suggests that the minor ailment is a non-issue for him at this point.
News:Anze Kopitar was shaken up early in the third period of Saturday's game after he suffered a knee-on-knee hit from Calgary's Mark Giordano.
Analysis: He was in obvious pain and limped to the bench where he was seen hopping on one foot to move down to his seat. It appears as though he avoided serious injury as he was able to return to the ice. He will likely be quite sore, though, particularly when his quad tightens up in the next few days.
News:Anze Kopitar (upper body), who left Thursday's game after taking a big hit, fully expects to play Saturday, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: The Kings didn't skate on Friday but Anze Kopitar still looks like he'll play Saturday. "I'm feeling good this morning. I don't have any issues," he said Friday.
Kings' Kopitar Reportedly Fine After Exiting Thursday
News:Anze Kopitar (upper body), who left Thursday's game late in the third period, "should be fine" according to head coach Darryl Sutter, the LA Times reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar left the game with a bloody nose and sore neck and shoulder and while general manager Dean Lombardi said that Kopitar would be further evaluated Friday it appears he may have avoided any sort of injury that might keep him out of action.
News:Anze Kopitar left Thursday's game in the third period after getting tossed into the boards by Dallas' Brenden Morrow, the Associated Press reports. The Kings say he has an upper body injury.
Analysis: The event set off a melee in a game the Kings would end up losing in a shootout. Anze Kopitar had three points before departing, so the night wasn't a total loss. The Kings are back at it Saturday, so hopefully the injury is minor and he has a chance to return for that one.
News:Anze Kopitar finally -- finally! -- lit the lamp Saturday in the Kings' 4-1 win over the Canucks. The marker breaks a 17-game drought, the longest of his career.
Analysis: You may exhale now. Anze Kopitar is far too talented for a goalless string like this to last.
News:Anze Kopitar posted an assist in Monday's shootout win over Toronto but saw his goal drought reach 12 games.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar still has 30 points on the season despite no goals recently. The Kings' star has five assists in the last seven games, but he is integral to the Kings' success. Look for his numbers to continue rolling in once the Kings figure out their on-ice issues.
News:Anze Kopitar fired seven shots and logged an assist as the Kings dropped Saturday's contest to Dallas, 2-1.
Analysis: His scoring is off significantly over the past couple of weeks. He's 0-3-3 with a minus-4 rating in his last seven games. Despite this drought, he still comfortably leads all LA skaters with 28 points in 29 contests. He should shake this off and return to being an elite skater soon.
News:Anze Kopitar returned from an awkward hit into the boards in the second period of the Kings' loss to Minnesota on Thursday, posting an assist and seven shots on goal, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: The hit itself was scary and saw Minnesota's Kyle Brodziak earn a five-minute major and a game misconduct penalty. Anze Kopitar was shaken up but returned on the power play.
News:Anze Kopitar left Thursday's contest against Minnesota after a hit from the Wild's Kyle Brodziak sent him awkwardly into the boards.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar was motionless for a few seconds but was helped off the ice by the Kings' medical staff. He crashed into the boards at an awkward angle, appearing to hit his head and shoulder. Stay tuned.
News:Anze Kopitar grabbed a goal and finished a minus-2 in Tuesday's win over St. Louis.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar continues to establish himself as one of the league's top centers and currently sits with 24 points in 21 games. He is the focal point of LA's attack and has three points in the last three contests.
News:Anze Kopitar assisted on both Kings goals in Thursday's loss to the Canucks, giving him 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in just 16 games to start the year.
Analysis: One of the best young players in the NHL, Anze Kopitar has never exceeded a point per game over a full NHL season, but he's on an early pace to do so this year. His 82-game pace: 41 goals, 61 assists.
News:Anze Kopitar figured in both of Los Angeles' goals Saturday, scoring in the second frame and then assisting on Simon Gagne's third-period tally. But the Kings came up short in the shootout to drop a 3-2 decision.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar is comfortably among the top 10 skaters in the league, and is an easy start recommendation whenever the Kings take the ice.
News:Anze Kopitar picked up a power-play goal Sunday against Colorado.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has six goals on the season now and clearly is showing no signs of his injury that ended his last season. He's one of the best players in the league and still has room for improvement.
Kings Fall Despite Kopitar's Fifth Tally Of Season
News:Anze Kopitar found nylon in Saturday's 3-2 loss at Phoenix.
Analysis: His 13 points in 10 games place him among the league's scoring leaders, and he already has five multi-point games this season. You just don't sit an elite scorer like him.
News:Anze Kopitar's hot start continued Tuesday with a goal and an assist.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar has nine points (four goals, five assists) in just five games this year and is showing no ill effects from the ankle injury that ended his season last year.
News:Anze Kopitar scored two goals in the Kings' loss to the Sabres on Saturday.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar is off to a good start this season with three goals and an assist through two games. If he can stay healthy, he'll be a good bet to reach 30 goals for the third time in his career.
News:Anze Kopitar scored a goal and an assist in the Kings' 3-2 overtime victory over the Rangers on Friday.
Analysis: The game's first star saw 21:45 of icetime and finished with a plus-1 rating and three shots on net.
News:Anze Kopitar netted himself a hat trick Wednesday night as Los Angeles thumped Colorado 6-0.
Analysis: Even with the arrival of Mike Richards, Anze Kopitar is still the number one center on a very deep Kings team.
News:Anze Kopitar is skating without pain after recovering from a broken right fibula, but then still feels discomfort from the resultant swelling, the LA Times reports.
Analysis:Anze Kopitar's surgery occurred in March, so this is pretty normal. "The doctor said it takes up to a year to get the swelling down and that's normal so I'm not concerned with that," he said. He'll try stretching his skate boot to relieve the swelling.
News: Kopitar (ankle) is well ahead of his recovery schedule from ankle surgery, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: "He was way ahead of schedule when he left here (for Slovenia). When he left here, he was already walking," general manager Dean Lombardi said. At this point, Kopitar looks like a good bet to be ready with the rest of his teammates when training camp begins.
News: Kopitar had successful surgery Wednesday to repair torn ligaments in his right ankle, the LA Kings Insider reports.
Analysis: The recovery process could be a lengthy one as Kopitar isn't expected to be back on the ice until mid-summer at the earliest.
News: Kopitar underwent an MRI on Monday and will require corrective surgery to repair torn ligaments caused by a high ankle sprain, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: The original estimate was at least six weeks, but the Kings are now simply saying that he is out indefinitely. Unless you're in a pool that counts playoff stats, you can cut Kopitar loose.
News: Kopitar suffered a broken ankle during Saturday's win over Colorado, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: Ouch. We have to imagine Kopitar is finished for the season, and with that -- coupled with Justin Williams' season-ending injury this week -- the team's hopes at a prolonged playoff run are in trouble. Kopitar is by far the team's leading scorer, 16 points ahead of Williams with 73 in 75 games.
News: Kopitar has a broken ankle and will be out at least six weeks, Richard Hammond of LAKingsInsider.com reports.
Analysis: Wow. Kopitar is obviously done for the rest of the regular season and will likely need the Kings to make a significantly deep run into the playoffs for him to have a chance of returning at any point this season.
News: Kopitar was announced as having a lower-body injury and is not expected to return to Saturday's game against Colorado, the Kings' official site reports.
Analysis: More on the specific nature and severity of Kopitar's injury as we know it, but unless he bounces back unexpectedly Saturday, consider him day-to-day.
News: Kopitar had to leave Saturday's game against Colorado with just under four minutes left in the second period, lakingsinsider.com reports.
Analysis: The report notes that Kopitar appeared to get his right leg twisted underneath him, but so far specifics of his injury are not available.
News: Kopitar's five-game scoring streak ended Saturday in a 2-1 loss to the Ducks. He skated a quiet 25-shift night, getting off three shots and finishing minus-1.
Analysis: Don't let this outing deter you from starting him whenever you can. His season ledger stands at 72 points in 72 games; that's good enough to make him valuable in most fantasy leagues.
News: Kopitar had a goal and an assist in Tuesday's win over Nashville.
Analysis: Kopitar now has points in 10 of his last 11 games. He's an elite fantasy option at the moment, or really any moment going forward.
News: Kopitar scored the Kings' first three goals, including the game winner, in a 4-2 win over Columbus Friday night.
Analysis: He's on a great run right now, with eight goals and 11 assists over his last 14 games.
News: Kopitar scored the game tying goal Wednesday night and the Kings went on to beat the Red Wings 2-1.
Analysis: The goal was his 21st of the season. Kopitar has 16 points (5G, 11A) in his last 13 games.
News: Kopitar picked up two helpers Monday against the Red Wings.
Analysis: Kopitar has 62 points on the season, and he has been on a tear with seven points in four games. The addition of Dustin Penner will only help Kopitar improve his already impressive numbers.
News: Kopitar stretched his goal streak to three games Saturday with his 20th of the season. He also added an assist.
Analysis: He has four points on his current streak and 10 points in his last eight games. It's a nice burst for a guy who scuffled with five points in 13 games Jan. 10 and Feb. 10. Kopitar is a mandatory activation in all formats.
Kings' Kopitar Has A Goal And An Assist Versus Minnesota
News: Kopitar scored his 19th goal, shorthanded, in the Kings victory over Minnesota on Thursday.
Analysis: Kopitar is not having the season that some expected of him this season, but he's the kind of player that could break out at any moment.
News: Kopitar had a goal and an assist in Saturday's win over the Capitals.
Analysis: Kopitar has been mired in an extended scoring slump, notching just one goal in his last 20 games, but he put in a game-tying rebound in the second period. The Kings shook up their lines before Saturday's game, and Kopitar seemed to mesh well with new linemates Michael Handzus and Wayne Simmonds.
News: Kopitar, who was held off the scoresheet in Thursday's 2-1 loss, has scored just one goal in his last 20 games.
Analysis: He's picked up a fair amount of assists (13) in his scoring drought but most of those came early as he has just five points (1 G, 4 A) in his last 13 games. He's still averaging close to a point a game (50 points in 54 games) but the latest slump may have torpedoed his chances at surpassing last year's career-high point total (81).
News: Kopitar cashed in for the first time in 10 games, finding the net in the first period of Saturday's 5-2 win over Edmonton.
Analysis: Okay; it's clear to exhale now if you own him. He's still comfortably atop the LA scoring columns, and merits a start recommendation in most fantasy formats.
News: Kopitar has now gone seven games without finding twine; he collected an assist in the Kings' 6-4 win over the Blue Jackets on Saturday.
Analysis: His fantasy owners may console themselves with his 10 assists over that span. He's stil a scoring machine, and should be active in virtually all formats.
News: Kopitar's four-game points streak ended Saturday as the Sharks shut out the Kings, 1-0.
Analysis: Don't let this dissuade you; he's still above the point-per-game line and he's still worth a start every time he laces 'em up.
News: Kopitar recorded two assists in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to host Phoenix.
Analysis: Kopitar is riding a three-game point streak where has tallied once and chipped in with five helpers. The elite center now has 40 points on the year and continues to be must-start in all fantasy formats.
News: Kopitar's six-game scoring string ended Saturday as the Predators held him off the board on three shots.
Analysis: Just about every other King got into the scoring in LA's 6-1 win. Don't let this one night dissuade you in the slightest; Kopitar remains the Kings' leading scorer, and he should be active for you every time he laces 'em up.
News: Kopitar registered two goals Monday in the 5-0 rout of Detroit.
Analysis: Kopitar has been red hot of late and the Kings have been asserting themselves as one of the West's top teams. He has eight points in the last five contests and five goals over that span. Kopitar's an elite player and will continue to produce, as he's also a plus-6 over the last four games.
News: Kopitar assisted on both Los Angeles goals in Saturday's 3-2 overtime loss to Minnesota.
Analysis: He's probaly the least-known star in the NHL, at least for those fans in the Eastern Time Zone who seldom get to see him skate.
News: Kopitar ended Saturday's game against the visiting Red Wings as he found the net 4:04 into overtime. He added an assist and finished plus-2.
Analysis: It's noteworthy that he had nine shots on goal in this game, easily a season high for him.
News: Kopitar's second goal of the week was all the offense Los Angeles could muster in a 2-1 home loss to the Blackhawks on Saturday night. The marker came in a 5-on-3 situation, his third power-play tally of the campaign.
Analysis: The Kings are struggling mightily nowadays, but Kopitar's offensive presence makes him a solid start recommendation in almost all fantasy formats anyway.
Kopitar Collects Three More Points as Kings Cruise
News: Kopitar scored twice and added a power-play assist as Los Angeles buried the Islanders on Saturday, 5-1.
Analysis: It's his third straight multi-point game. If you have him, start him, no matter who the night's opponent is.
News: Los Angeles beat Nashville 4-1 Saturday behind Kopitar's 10th and 11th points of the year. Both points came in the first frame as the Kings jumped out to a lead they would never relinquish.
Analysis: If you're playing in a league with an East-Coast bias, some of your owners may not know how good some of the Kings are. Kopitar is a proven, solid scorer who will continue to put up valuable fantasy numbers on one of the lesser-known rosters in the NHL.
News: Kopitar notched a goal and an assist in Monday's win over Minnesota, scoring for the second straight game.
Analysis: Kopitar has points in six of the last seven games and remains one of the team's elite talents. Look for him to carry the team's offense all season and enjoy stretches of steady production.
News: Kopitar scored his first of the year and added an assist in Wednesday's 4-3 win over visiting Carolina.
Analysis: Kopitar extended his point streak to four games, where he has recorded a goal and four assists. He is an elite center and is due for a big season - keep him glued to a starting roster spot.
News: Kopitar scored the winning goal in the shootout as Los Angeles beat the Canucks in Vancouver on Saturday night.
Analysis: He suffered a split lip in the second period and had to be helped from the ice as he bled profusely. But 18 stitches later, he returned to start the third period before scoring the game-winner in the shootout. Needless to say, we don't think the injury will hamper his play.
News: Kopitar had four assists in the Kings' romp over the Ducks on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Two of those four assists came on the power play. The Kings scored three of their eight goals with the man advantage.
News: Kings leading scorer Anze Kopitar went down hard near the boards with 3 1/2 minutes left in the third period of Game 6 of the Western Conference quarterfinals against the Canucks and skated to the bench, putting no weight on his left foot. He managed an assist in 19:36 as Los Angeles was eliminated from the playoffs.
Analysis: Tough way for Kopitar's season to end. On top of losing in the opening round of the playoffs, he had to watch his team get eliminated. We aren't sure if this is a serious injury, but we expect Kopitar will be ready for the start of training camp. Kopitar had a career-high 34 goals, 47 points and 81 points in 2009-10. He also finished above even for the first time in his career. Los Angeles became serious playoff contenders this season and Kopitar anchored the team's top line. He has become a star in the NHL and a must-own Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar tallied a pair of assists and finished at minus-1 on Monday against the Avalanche. It was his first multi-assist game since Feb. 4. He has four goals and five assists in 10 games since the Olympic break. However, he is also minus-6 in that span.
Analysis: Kopitar probably wishes the Olympic break never happened since he has been a little sluggish coming out of it. He was playing very well before the two-week hiatus and returned to his early-season form. Kopitar is still being productive for Fantasy owners, but he is not at the level we would like. Kopitar drops to being a No. 2 Fantasy forward until he regains his rhythm.
News:The Sports Xchange reports C Anze Kopitar remains the Kings' biggest offensive force. Kopitar scored his 28th goal of the season Saturday against the Avalanche, which allowed him to pass his total from last season. Kopitar has recorded at least one point in 11 of his last 12 games (nine goals, nine assists).
Analysis: It's been great to see Kopitar heat up before the Olympic break since he had some offensive struggles in November and December. He has begun to adjust to new linemates after losing Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams to injuries early in the season. Kopitar is a top offensive threat and must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored in Monday's loss to the Ducks. He now has seven goals in his last seven games and 27 on the season.
Analysis: Kopitar had a December to forget, but other than that the 22-year-old has had a stellar 2009-10 campaign. He is now only 15 points behind his career high of 77 and his plus-8 is his best-ever rating by a long way. His offensive skills have helped power the Kings to a 36-20-3 record and Kopitar remains a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings C Anze Kopitar had two goals and two assists on Thursday against the Ducks, and has recorded at least one point in eight consecutive games. He has seven goals and eight assists in that stretch. Kopitar has matched his career-best point streak (eight games, from Nov. 28-Dec. 12, 2007).
Analysis: Kopitar has had four multi-point games during his recent run and has been lighting it up since the calendar year hit 2010. He has totaled 10 goals and 22 points in his last 16 games. This is the type of production Kopitar flashed early in the season before his linemates -- Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams -- killed the chemistry with injuries. It's safe to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats again.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar stayed hot Tuesday with his 24th goal of the season in a win over the Rangers.
Analysis: With 18 points in his last 15 games, Kopitar has clearly woken up from his December sleepwalk and is back to being a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar extended his points streak to five straight games when he scored and assisted in Saturday's win over the Bruins. He has four goals and five assists during his run.
Analysis: After being a massive failure in December, Kopitar has come back strong in January with 16 points. He is now clearly all the way up to his must-start status from earlier this season.
News:Anze Kopitar scored his 100th and 101st career goals and the Los Angeles Kings tied a season high with their fourth straight win, 4-1 over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday. With Los Angeles up 1-0 late in the second period, Kopitar scored goal No. 100 in his 289th career game. Wayne Simmonds' stretch pass to Ryan Smyth ignited a Kings rush. Smyth then dropped a pass to Kopitar, who carried the puck right to left through the high slot and then wristed a hard shot that beat goalie Steve Mason on the stick side. Kopitar scored again -- for his 22nd of the season -- with a second left on a power play after the Blue Jackets had already killed 1:33 of a two-man disadvantage by lifting a rebound of his own shot into the top of the net.
Analysis: Kopitar has three goals and four assists during a four-game win streak. He is up to six goals and 14 points in 12 January games. Kopitar finally seems back in his comfort zone after having a down month in December with only six points. It's safe to treat him again as a high-end Fantasy option. Los Angeles is a playoff contender and Kopitar is one of the team's top playmakers.
News:The Sports Xchange reports there's nothing more important to Kings coach Terry Murray -- and thus, to the success of the Kings -- than Murray's ability to get production from first-line center Anze Kopitar. Kopitar, who was the NHL's leading scorer one month into this season, followed that up with a lengthy slump, including a 13-game stretch without a goal. It appears, though, that Kopitar is starting to come out of it. He had his first three-point game in more than two months on Saturday in Detroit, and he had a first-period assist in the Kings' 5-3 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. "Kopitar, to me, in the last couple games, he's had a tremendous attitude as far as trying to get something done every time the puck is on his stick," Murray said. "He attacks, he's aggressive with it, he's holding it in difficult situations and he probably went to the net, in the Detroit game in particular, as well as he has all year long."
Analysis: It's good to see Kopitar get his legs back under him after he was mired in a scoring slump from mid-November through December. His season started to tail off after his linemates -- Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams -- started to get injured. But now that Kopitar is heating up again, feel free to play him in Fantasy.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar had a goal and two assists in Saturday's win over the Red Wings. It was only his second multi-point game since Nov. 11.
Analysis: After a monster first month and half, Kopitar really hit the skids in mid-November. He's shown some signs of life lately though, and is still worth using in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings C Anze Kopitar scored the game-tying goal in the third period on Saturday against the Bruins, then scored the winning goal in the shootout. Kopitar has recorded at least one point in four consecutive games (two goals, two assists) and has seven points in his last seven games (three goals, four assists). The Kings have a 12-3 record when Kopitar scores a goal this season.
Analysis: It's good to see Kopitar get his legs back under him after he was mired in a scoring slump from mid-November through December. His season started to tail off after his linemates -- Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams -- started to get injured. But now that Kopitar is heating up again, feel free to play him in Fantasy.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored and assisted in Monday's win over the Sharks, giving him his first multi-point game since Nov. 11.
Analysis: Kopitar was on fire earlier this season, and could be in for a solid boost in production now that Ryan Smyth is back healthy and contributing. If you benched Kopitar during his cold run, now might be the time activate him again.
News: Wednesday's game against Calgary and Los Angeles got off to a rousing start with Flames defenseman Dion Phaneuf ejected 5 minutes into the first period after ramming Kings scoring leader Anze Kopitar into the boards in the Calgary end. Phaneuf was assessed a boarding major and game misconduct on the play, which resulted in the 22-year-old Slovenian having his helmet fly off as his head hit the dasher where the boards meets the glass. Kopitar remained down for a couple minutes before leaving the ice under his own power. While the penalties from the ensuring melee were being sorted out, coaches Brent Sutter of the Flames and Terry Murray of the Kings got into it with a verbal exchange. Kopitar didn't miss any shifts, and the Saddledome crowd soundly booed him each time he touched the puck the rest of the game.
Analysis: Kopitar didn't have a point Wednesday and hasn't scored in six games, but the good news is that he didn't suffer a devastating injury. His offensive game has kind of thinned out since both Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams, Kopitar's regular linemates, have battled injury. Kopitar has only six points in 13 December games and is a far cry from the player that opened the season with 21 points in October. But we say be patient with Kopitar, who has proven to be a dynamic scorer.
News:Dustin Brown, Anze Kopitar and Teddy Purcell picked the perfect time to end their long goal droughts. Brown scored for the first time in more than a month 1:16 into overtime, Kopitar and Purcell ended their own droughts in regulation, and the Los Angeles Kings overcame a blown third-period lead to beat the San Jose Sharks 5-4 on Wednesday night. Kopitar ended his 14-game drought -- the longest of his career -- with a power-play tally in a three-goal second period for Los Angeles. "It was definitely a good feeling when I scored," Kopitar said. "I'm pretty sure it was for Teddy and Brownie. A couple of monkeys jumped off the back. It was a pretty big game to score in, too."
Analysis: It's no surprise that Kopitar's drought began around the same time linemate Ryan Smyth went down with an upper-body injury. Smyth is making progress and could return within the next week, but that is not definite. Kopitar has cooled off after an outstanding start, but that is no reason to bail on the Russian forward. He is still a top scoring threat and viable high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored twice in Thursday's win over the Penguins, extending his NHL-leading point total to 26.
Analysis: Kopitar is on his way to a monster season with 13 goals and 13 assists in 16 games so far. Get him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal, tallied two assists and plus-3 during Monday's game against the Coyotes. Kopitar gave the Kings a 1-0 lead at 15:59 of the first period, taking advantage of a partial screen by Ryan Smyth to beat Jason LaBarbera from the bottom of the right faceoff circle. Kopitar has seven goals and five assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: The line of Kopitar, Smyth and Justin Williams has been as good as any offensive unit in the NHL. The trio has really been clicking in 2009-10 and that has allowed Kopitar to take his game to the next level. He remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar, the NHL points leader, scored twice in Sunday's win over the Blue Jackets. He now has 21 points on the season.
Analysis: Kopitar kind of had a rough season in 2008-09 while adjusting to Terry Murray's system, but he caught on late in the year and has been on a roll to begin 2009-10 thanks to the addition of Ryan Smyth. Kopitar is back to being a must-start Fantasy option.
News: C Anze Kopitar had three assists on Saturday against Phoenix, giving him a league-best 19 points for the season. Kopitar passed Washington's Alexander Ovechkin, who had one assist on Saturday and has 17 points for the season.
Analysis: Kopitar's big night came just two days after he recorded his first career hat trick in an overtime victory over Dallas. Kopitar has eight goals and 11 assists this season. Kopitar kind of had a rough season in 2008-09 while adjusting to Terry Murray's system. But he caught on late in the year and has been on a roll to begin 2009-10 thanks to the addition of Ryan Smyth. Kopitar is back to being a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar claimed his first NHL hat trick in Thursday's win over the Stars.
Analysis: Everyone knows Kopitar is a capable offensive talent, but no one expected him to be tied with Alexander Ovechkin for the NHL points lead three weeks into the season. Continue to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored his fifth goal of the season Monday in a win over the Stars.
Analysis: Kopitar has failed to point in just one game this season. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats until further notice.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored his fourth goal of the season Monday, a power-play effort in a 2-1 win over the Islanders.
Analysis: Kopitar is off to a great start this season and looks to be in for another great campaign. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats until further notice.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored and added two assists in Thursday's win over the Wild. He now has eight points in his first three games this season.
Analysis: Kopitar seems to sneak under most people's radar because he plays for the Kings, but he's off to a great start this season and should be in for another great campaign. Get him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal, tallied two assists and finished at plus-2 on Tuesday against San Jose. When Kopitar somehow sneaked a long deflected puck into the top near corner of Evgeni Nabokov's net from near the blue line late in the second period, Sharks coach McLellan replaced Nabokov with Thomas Greiss, the German rookie making his first NHL appearance since March 20, 2008.
Analysis: Kopitar might have gotten a lucky goal Tuesday, but it still counts as a score. Kopitar now has scored in two straight and has two multi-point games as well. He is off to a way better start in 2009-10 than in 2008-09, his first year under Terry Murray. Now that he understands Murray's system, Kopitar is thriving and is back to being a reliable high-end Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports C Anze Kopitar's future remains a bit up in the air with rumors swirling that the Kings might acquire a top-level center, such as Tampa Bay's Vincent Lecavalier. Kopitar, who signed a seven-year contract extension last year, is still a big part of the Kings' future, but his offensive numbers dipped a bit from 32 goals and 45 assists in 2007-08 to 27 goals and 39 assists in 2008-09. If the Kings acquire a top center, it might allow Kopitar to be more valuable in a second-line role.
Analysis: Even though Kopitar had a down season by his standards, he still led the Kings with 66 points. And the numbers don't tell the entire story. Kopitar really struggled to adjust to Terry Murray's defensive-first approach. But he caught on by the end of the year and had 15 goals in his final 34 games. Even if L.A. lands a top-notch center like Lecavalier, who is to say that the newcomer won't also have their issues transitioning to Murray's system. It seems L.A. would likely be best to move forward with Kopitar as their top-line center. Even if he gets help, Kopitar should be a 60-point threat. Draft him as a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal during Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the Stars. Kopitar capped the scoring in the third as he beat Marty Turco with a wrist shot at 18:29. It was his 26th goal and first score in seven games.
Analysis: Koptiar was red hot to begin March with six goals and four assists in eight games. He hasn't been as productive as of late with Los Angeles taking a quick turn downhill. Kopitar hasn't had a great season from start to finish, but he still passes as a viable No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal during Friday's 4-2 loss to the Canucks. The Kings tied it on goals by Alexander Frolov and Kopitar 26 seconds apart in the third, the later on a harmless wrist shot off the left boards during a 3-on-2 rush. Kopitar now has five goals and four assists during a six-game point streak.
Analysis: Kings coach Terry Murray has preached two-way play for all of his forwards in 2008-09. Some of the players have levitated to the role (Kopitar) and others fizzled (Patrick O'Sullivan before being traded to Edmonton). Kopitar wasn't looking much like a Fantasy star in the first half, but he has come on in the second half and has returned to being a high-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Kings C Anze Kopitar is coming around on offense. Through the first 38 games of the season, Kopitar had 10 goals and 19 assists, pedestrian numbers at best. In his 18 games in February and March, Kopitar has 11 goals and nine assists, and he had scored a goal in four consecutive games heading into Monday. Kopitar assisted on D Denis Gauthier's first-period goal Monday. Coach Terry Murray said, "The thing that I've really been proud with (Kopitar) is that, from the first day of the camp, when we talked about the defensive part of the game, he has been really conscientious and working hard on bringing that to his game. He's becoming a real complete player, and that's how it has to be in order to become a champion."
Analysis: Murray has preached two-way play for all of his forwards in 2008-09. Some of the players have levitated to the role (Kopitar) and others fizzled (Patrick O'Sullivan before being traded to Edmonton). Kopitar wasn't looking much like a Fantasy star in the first half, but he has come on in the second half and has returned to being a high-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar contributed a goal and two assists in Thursday's win over the Stars.
Analysis: Kopitar is 16 points behind his 77 total from last season, but he's still having a good enough campaign to be worth using in most Fantasy formats as a low-end starting center.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored and added an assist on Jack Johnson's goal in the third consecutive loss for the fading Kings on Sunday against the Blackhawks. Kopitar's goal, with 41 seconds left in the period, withstood a video review and narrowed the Kings' deficit to 3-2. Blackhawks goalie Antti Niemi got a piece of Teddy Purcell's initial shot, then Kopitar swept the loose puck across the goal line as the net was knocked off its moorings. The goal stood because Kopitar was shoved into the post by Chicago's Martin Havlat.
Analysis: Kopitar had only one assist in his last five games coming into Sunday's game against Chicago. He needs to be more of a factor than that if the Kings are to have any shot at making the playoffs this season. Kopitar has the potential to be a high-end Fantasy option and might be on the verge of another hot streak.
News:Anze Kopitar and the Los Angeles Kings kept their heads and held on to a satisfying road victory -- even if it was only down the 5 Freeway. Ryan Getzlaf tied it at 2 for the Ducks early in the third period, but Dustin Brown and Kopitar responded with power-play goals to give the Kings a 4-3 victory against their Southern California rival. "Before I don't know if we were comfortable going into the third period with a one goal-lead, but we kept our composure," Kopitar said. "We got scored on but we didn't back off, we kept on going." Kopitar tallied his 19th goal 15:23 into the third for what would be the eventual game winner. He also added an assist.
Analysis: Kopitar has six points (three goals) in his last two games. He has totaled 11 points in eight February games and has a season-high seven goals. Kopitar had a pretty quiet season through the first three months as Los Angeles was trying to find their identity under coach Terry Murray. Now that the team has a chance to make the playoffs, Kopitar has upped his game to the level we would like to see. Kopitar has high-end Fantasy potential, so let's hope this hot streak lasts.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored twice and added two assists during Monday's 7-6 shootout loss to the Thrashers. Kopitar scored his first power-play goal 7:30 into the third to start Los Angeles on a comeback after being down 6-5. Kopitar scored his second power-play goal of the game for the Kings with five seconds left in the third period to force overtime. He has six goals and three assists in seven February games.
Analysis: Kopitar had a pretty quiet season through the first three months as Los Angeles was trying to find their identity under coach Terry Murray. Now that the team has a chance to make the playoffs, Kopitar has upped his game to the level we would like to see. Kopitar has high-end Fantasy potential, so let's hope this hot streak lasts.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored for the third straight game during Tuesday's 4-3 shootout win against the Islanders. Kopitar tied the game at 2 with his 16th goal 5:27 into the second period after he finished off a 2-on-1 with Patrick O'Sullivan. He has four goals and one assist during his three-game point streak.
Analysis: Kopitar has quietly posted 43 points in 52 games this season, but since he hasn't been as explosive of a scorer like he was in 2007-08, it has gone unnoticed. Kopitar finally seems to be getting on track as Los Angeles makes a serious push for the playoffs. Kopitar has high-end Fantasy value, so keep tabs on his progress.
News:Anze Kopitar scored two goals and added an assist, and the Los Angeles Kings dealt the Washington Capitals a rare home loss, winning 5-4 Thursday night despite allowing Alex Ovechkin's 200th NHL goal. Los Angeles tied it with about 11 minutes left in the first period, when Kopitar converted during a 5-on-3 power play with a shot that sailed by a screened Jose Theodore. Kopitar broke a 1-1 tie with a goal 13 seconds into the period. Up against the boards, Alexander Frolov sent the puck ahead to Kopitar, who shot it over Theodore's right shoulder for his second of the game and 14th this season.
Analysis: Kopitar had as many goals Thursday as he did in his previous 20 games. He has taken on a much different role in 2008-09 under coach Terry Murray, who expects his players to be sound at both ends of the ice. Kopitar used to be an elite scorer and passer, but has taken a big step back this season. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy forward until the points stream in on a more regular basis.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar tallied a pair of assists and finished at minus-1 during Wednesday's game against the Avalanche. It was his 10th multi-point game of the season. Kopitar has at least one point in six of his last eight games (two goals and six assists). Kopitar has 37 points in 46 games this season.
Analysis: Kopitar might not be in the midst of a spectacular season for Los Angeles, but he has 30 points (11 goals) in his last 37 games. That's pretty decent production for a player that doesn't get a lot offensive support. Kopitar has high-end Fantasy potential, but remains more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal during Tuesday's 5-2 win against the Wild. The NHL's lowest-scoring team, the Kings were 0-for-26 on the power play during their skid until Kopitar scored with the man advantage at 7:18 of the second period to put Los Angeles ahead 2-1. Kopitar has two goals and four assists in his last seven games.
Analysis: Kopitar might not be in the midst of a spectacular season for Los Angeles, but he has 28 points (11 goals) in his last 36 games. That's pretty decent production for a player that doesn't get a lot offensive support. Kopitar has high-end Fantasy potential, but remains more of a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy option at this time.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored for the first time in 11 games Thursday when he lit the lamp and assisted in a win over the Ducks. He also finished with a game-best plus-3 rating.
Analysis: Kopitar has really been struggling over the last month and has gone from a high-end Fantasy forward to one only worth starting in larger leagues when the Kings have three or more games. Hopefully he'll turn things around soon.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Kings coach Terry Murray is seeing better play recently from struggling C Anze Kopitar. "Right now, I'm seeing Kopitar a lot with the puck on the attack, with speed," Murray said. "He's starting to get that part of the game back again that we were seeing in training camp, with the puck-possession time especially. When you have a player with that kind of skill, having the puck and generating the kind of speed that he does through the middle of the offensive zone, it's just a matter of time, to me, before good results will happen."
Analysis: Kopitar hasn't scored a goal since Dec. 13 and has just five assists since then. Hopefully he'll get things going soon, but until then you're better off just benching him in smaller leagues. He can be a solid No. 2 option when healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Kings on Saturday against the Flyers went back to a first line of Anze Kopitar centering Patrick O'Sullivan and Dustin Brown. It's at least the third time this season that coach Terry Murray has tried that line, but each previous time, Murray quickly became unhappy with the line's performance and broke it up. Kopitar, Brown and O'Sullivan are good off-ice friends and had great success playing together last season as each player had a career year. Kopitar has been a first-line staple all season, but Brown recently got moved down to the second line and O'Sullivan has skated on three different lines this season.
Analysis: Kopitar leads the team with 29 points while Brown is second with 26 and O'Sullivan is third with 23. Murray is trying his best to obviously put three of his best offensive players together and make it work like old times. None of the three players are converting goals at higher than 8.9 percent. Kopitar has the most Fantasy potential out of the trio, but all three guys are low-end Fantasy options until they can right the ship and score on a more consistent basis.
News: Frustrated by his team's inability to generate quality scoring chances -- not just goals, but chances -- Kings coach Terry Murray shuffled his forwards last week and created a new top line of center Anze Kopitar and wings Patrick O'Sullivan and Teddy Purcell. The new top line has sizzled in its three games together, including Monday's 3-2 shootout loss to San Jose. Purcell scored in the first period to give the Kings a 2-0 lead after he caused a turnover behind the Sharks' net.
Analysis: Purcell put up 83 points in the AHL last season, so he clearly has a solid offensive side to his game. While he remains a solid keeper, you should follow him closely in seasonal leagues in case he maintains this hot pace. Kopitar remains a top-end forward in all Fantasy formats, while O'Sullivan's value lies in deeper leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports perhaps it's merely a coincidence, but C Anze Kopitar has enjoyed two of his best offensive games since coach Terry Murray shuffled the Kings' lines. Kopitar, previously paired with LW Kyle Calder and RW Dustin Brown, had seven goals in his first 27 games, a steep dropoff from last season, when he led the Kings in points. Now paired with LW Patrick O'Sullivan and rookie RW Teddy Purcell, Kopitar has three goals in his last two games. Kopitar scored a first-period power-play goal Saturday against the Wild and also tied for the team high with six shots on goal.
Analysis: Kopitar had his first multi-goal game of the season Thursday against the Blues and Los Angeles has been waiting for him to have a nice run of goals. Kopitar hasn't had the most successful season since signing a huge contract extension, but the fact he is still the Kings' top scorer means he is a viable Fantasy option.
News:Dustin Brown scored three goals for his first NHL hat trick, Anze Kopitar had two goals and an assist, and the Los Angeles Kings rebounded from their most lopsided loss of the season with a 6-2 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Thursday. Kopitar made it 4-0 at 10:35 of the second after Chris Mason kicked out Kyle Quincey's slap shot from the left point. Kopitar capped the scoring 13:22 into the third period. He has scored four goals in his last four games.
Analysis: Kopitar had his first multi-goal game of the season Thursday and Los Angeles has been waiting for him to have a game like that. Kopitar hasn't had the most successful season since signing a huge contract extension, but the fact he is still the Kings' top scorer means he is a viable Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored an empty-net goal to clinch Saturday's 3-0 victory against the Blue Jackets, and also recorded the 100th assist of his career on LW Kyle Calder's second-period goal. Saturday's game was Kopitar's sixth multi-point game of the season (a team high) and the Kings have a 5-1 record in those games. Kopitar now leads the Kings with 21 points.
Analysis: Kopitar has scored in two straight games and three of six. Kopitar hasn't had the most successful season since signing a huge contract extension, but the fact he is still the Kings' top scorer means he is a viable Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal in Friday's home game against Edmonton, his first point in three games. He has three goals in his last six contests.
Analysis: Despite the goal, Kopitar finished the game with a minus-1 rating and has done so in each of the last three games. Despite this recent rough patch, Fantasy owners should keep him active as he remains a high-end option who figures to snap out of this funk.
News: Los Angeles C Anze Kopitar scored a goal and added an assist in the Kings 2-1 win over the Oilers on Wednesday night. Kopitar assisted Patrick O'Sullivan's goal in the 1st period and scored his fifth in the 2nd.
Analysis: Kopitar has 18 points on the season and five in his last four games for L.A. Kopitar is still one of the NHL's better centers and a solid high-end Fantasy option.
News: Los Angeles C Anze Kopitar scored late in Tuesday's 6-2 loss to the Flames. Kopitar scored his fourth goal of the season at the 19:10 mark in the 3rd period to give the game its final margin.
Analysis: Kopitar has 16 points on the season and three in his last three games for L.A. Kopitar is still one of the NHL's better centers and a solid high-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar assisted twice in Tuesday's win over the Stars and now has five assists in his last three games.
Analysis: Kopitar was given a big-time extension by the Kings at the beginning of the season and needs to show everyone it was money well spent. It's only a matter of time before Kopitar goes on a nice run and Saturday's game might be the catalyst. Kopitar is still one of the NHL's better centers and a solid high-end Fantasy option.
News:The Sports Xchange reports C Anze Kopitar, who has come under mild criticism from coach Terry Murray for his lack of production (one goal, seven assists in his first 12 games) came up big Saturda against the Blues. Kopitar opened the Kings' scoring with a first-period power-play goal and had the first assist on D Drew Doughty's third-period power-play goal, which put the Kings up 4-1. He added another assist for a three-point night.
Analysis: Kopitar was given a big-time extension by the Kings at the beginning of the season and needs to show everyone it was money well spent. It's only a matter of time before Kopitar goes on a nice run and Saturday's game might be the catalyst. Kopitar is still one of the NHL's better centers and a solid high-end Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar tallied two assists in Saturday's 5-4 loss to the Predators.
Analysis: Kopitar has six points in his first seven games, but only has one goal after scoring 32 last year. You have to think he'll pick the pace up in that department at some point, so he remains a solid starting forward in all formats.
News: The Sharks improved to 7-0 on Sunday against Los Angeles when holding center Anze Kopitar without a point. Kopitar signed a seven-year, $47.6 million extension with the Kings on Saturday but he showed plenty of frustration Sunday. The third-year pro was assessed a 10-minute misconduct after smashing his stick on the Kings bench in the middle period.
Analysis: Kopitar had a career-high 32 goals last season and has clearly established himself as the Kings' top center and best player. They gave him the big extension because they believe in his all-around game and just not his success against the Sharks. The points will come for Kopitar, so continue to keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Kings C Anze Kopitar has agreed to a seven-year, $47.6 million contract extension with the Kings.
Analysis: Kopitar had a career-high 32 goals last season and has clearly established himself as the Kings' top center and best player. The only drawback is that he plays for a bad team and his plus/minus rating will be down. Still, Kopitar is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:The Sports Xchange reports C Anze Kopitar has been outstanding in his first two NHL seasons, and led the Kings in scoring last year (77 points), but must take another step forward in order to be considered among the NHL's elite.
Analysis: Kopitar had a career-high 32 goals last season and has clearly established himself as the Kings' top center and best player. The only drawback is that he plays for a bad team and his plus/minus rating will be down. Still, Kopitar is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:Anze Kopitar netted his 29th goal and also earned his 39th assist in Saturday's 5-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens, the top team in the Eastern Conference. Kopitar now has points in seven of the last eight games.
Analysis: Kopitar has been a pretty consistent player all season and doesn't get the credit he deserves because he plays on a last place team. Kopitar has emerged as a solid No. 2 Fantasy forward.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar tallied two assists and finished at minus-1 during Saturday's game against the Avalanche. He extended his points streak to four game. He has three goals and six assists in that span.
Analysis: Kopitar had a pretty outstanding February with eight goals and six assists in 12 games. He has been pretty consistent all season and doesn't get the credit he deserves because he plays on a last place team. Kopitar has emerged as a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News:Anze Kopitar netted his 27th goal and also had two assists, but the Los Angeles Kings lost 6-5 to the Chicago Blackhawks in overtime Saturday. Kopitar's goal came with 13.3 seconds left in regulation on a cross-ice pass from Alexander Frolov, just moments after Kings defenseman Jack Johnson blocked Jonathan Toews' attempt at an empty-net goal from just outside the Los Angeles blue line.
Analysis: Kopitar has goals in the last two games and has seven in February. It's the first month this season he has more than six goals. Kopitar is often overlooked in Fantasy leagues because he plays for the Kings, but he is their best scoring option and has emerged as a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy option.
News:Anze Kopitar scored on a power play for one of the Kings' six goals en route to a 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames on Friday night and improving Los Angeles' NHL-worst record to 25-32-3.
Analysis: Kopitar has five goals in his last six games. Kopitar hasn't scored more than six goals in a month this season, but already has five through seven February games. Kopitar is often overlooked in Fantasy leagues because he plays for the Kings, but he is their best scoring option and has emerged as a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored twice during a 3-2 shootout win Sunday against Columbus. Kopitar opened the scoring 43 seconds into the game. Blue Jackets G Pascal Leclaire kicked aside Dustin Brown's shot. But, there wasn't a Blue Jackets player in site to corral the rebound before Michael Cammalleri grabbed it and slid a backhand pass to Kopitar for the tap-in goal on the King's second shot. There was a lengthy video review before the goal was made official. "I don't think the goalie really knew where the puck was," Kopitar said. Kopitar made it 2-1 at 9:02 of the second period, scoring a nifty power-play goal and 24th of the season. Leclaire skated far from the crease to block Patrick O'Sullivan's shot. The rebound came to Kopitar, who flicked it with his backhand through a crowd of players from the left circle and into the vacated net.
Analysis: Kopitar now has four goals in his last four games and five in his last seven. Kopitar hasn't scored more than six goals in a month this season, but already has four through four February games. He also has 32 points in his last 33 games. He is often overlooked in Fantasy leagues because he plays for the Kings, but is their best scoring option and has emerged as a solid No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar sealed the 5-3 win Thursday against the Red Wings with a backhanded goal at 14:39. A deflected pass fluttered to him in front of the net, and he lifted over the left shoulder of Chris Osgood for his 22nd goal and second in as many games. Kopitar, who finished at plus-2, now has four goals and two assists in his last six games.
Analysis: Kopitar now stands at 51 points on the season and is closing on his rookie mark of 61 points. His only blemish this season is a minus-13 rating, but that is what happens playing on the top line for the NHL's worst team. Kopitar is a star in the making and has already emerged as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News:Anze Kopitar had a goal and an assist to help the Los Angeles Kings to a 4-2 win over the New York Rangers on Tuesday night. Kopitar now has 21 goals this season and 29 assists.
Analysis: Kopitar has points in four of his last five games. He is on pace to easily top his 61-point total from his rookie season of 2006-07. While he's never a stud in the plus/minus category (minus-14), he remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Kings second-year C Anze Kopitar matched his goal total from his rookie season on Tuesday when he scored his 20th goal of this campaign in a 3-2 OT loss to the Flyers. He now has goals in back-to-back games for the fifth time this season.
Analysis: Kopitar remains on pace to easily top his 61-point total from his rookie season of 2006-07. While he's never a stud in the plus/minus category, e remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: All-Star Anze Kopitar scored his first goal in five games on Thursday as the Kings beat the Ducks 3-1. Kopitar gave Los Angeles a 1-0 lead on a power-play goal at 16:16 of the first period. During a scrum in front of the net, the puck hit an Anaheim defender and hopped over Jean-Sebastien Giguere's shoulder for Kopitar's 19th goal.
Analysis: Kopitar is on pace to easily top his 61-point total from his rookie season of 2006-07. Kopitar has a dismal minus-14 rating in the plus/minus category and he remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar got his first multi-point game in almost a month Tuesday when he assisted twice in a 3-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers.
Analysis: Kopitar has four points in his last three games and remains on pace to easily top his 61-point total from his rookie season of 2006-07. His plus-2 rating on Tuesday helped his dismal overall rating a little and he remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored his 18th goal of the season when he redirected Rob Blake's long slap shot for a 3-2 lead at 14:15 of the second period. The Kings wnet on to win Saturday contest against the Stars 4-3 in a shootout.
Analysis: Kopitar continues to have a good second season in the NHL and has developed into the Kings' best offensive weapon. The only downside is that he sports a minus-12, but he plays on one of the worst teams in the NHL, so there is not much you can do there. He still remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a goal during Saturday's 6-4 loss to the Flames. Trailing 3-1 after two periods, Los Angeles grabbed a 4-3 lead on Kopitar's 17th goal during a 5-on-3 power play. Cory Sarich was serving a four-minute penalty for high-sticking Kyle Calder, and Matthew Lombardi was in the box for slashing. Kopitar now has seven goals on the power play.
Analysis: Kopitar continues to have an outstanding second season in the NHL and has developed into the Kings' best offensive weapon. The only downside is that he sports a minus-10, but he plays on one of the worst teams in the NHL, so there is not much you can do there. He still remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar tallied an assist and finished at minus-1 during Friday's game against the Blue Jackets. He doesn't have a goal in five straight games, but does have at least one assist in three straight game. He has a total of four in that span.
Analysis: Kopitar continues to have an outstanding second season in the NHL and has developed into the Kings' best offensive weapon. The only downside is that he sports a minus-10, but he plays on one of the worst teams in the NHL, so there is not much you can do there. He still remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News:Anze Kopitar scored the go-ahead goal against Vancouver Thursday. He now has a point in his past seven games, with six goals and six assists.
Analysis: Kopitar had a career-high four assists in the Kings' 8-2 victory Saturday. He remains one of the Kings' best offensive options in Fantasy. He might go without a point for a few games, but he rarely has long droughts.
News: The Los Angeles Kings' sputtering offense needed a quick fix. Dustin Brown, Anze Kopitar and defenseman Tom Preissing helped provide it, making goalie Jonathan Quick's NHL debut an absolute breeze Thursday against Buffalo. Quick, pressed into service because of injuries to Jason LaBarbera and Jean-Sebastien Aubin, made 15 saves and was staked to a 7-0 lead by the 11:07 mark of the second period. "It was just good timing that I happened to get in tonight," Quick said. "It was a lot easier with the support the team gave me and the way they played in front of me. It was a good game for me to start off my career with. It was a lot of fun."
Analysis: Anze Kopitar had a career-high four assists in the Kings' 8-2 victory. "I felt really good tonight. And with the big start that we had, it makes it a lot easier to get your confidence back and to make plays that you usually wouldn't," Kopitar said. "When you get up by two or three goals, those seam passes open up. And that was the case tonight. Everybody was making plays and it was really enjoyable to play this game." He remains one of the Kings' best offensive options. He might go without a point for a few games, but he rarely has long droughts. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News:Anze Kopitar scored in his third consecutive game Monday against Edmonton and he assisted on Brown's power-play goal, but it wasn't enough to prevent the Kings' seventh loss in nine games.
Analysis: Kopitar has posted 12 goals this season and remains one of the Kings' best offensive options. He might go without a point for a few games, but he rarely has long droughts. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored a first period goal Saturday against the Avalanche, but also finished at minus-3. He now has a goal in consecutive games and three in his last four games. He also has an assist in that span.
Analysis: Kopitar has posted 12 goals this season and remains one of the Kings' best offensive options. He might go without a point for a few games, but he rarely goes in long droughts. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward.
News:Anze Kopitar knew from recent experience that a week off sometimes leads to trouble on the ice. He also knew the Los Angeles Kings needed to take advantage. Kopitar and Dustin Brown each scored first-period goals and the Kings ended a five-game losing streak with a 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday. Kopitar's power-play goal gave the Kings a 2-0 lead with 34 seconds left in the period. "Right off the bat, we were moving the puck well," Kopitar said. "We were getting some shots on the net."
Analysis: Kopitar assisted on Brown's goal and finished at plus-1 against the Sharks. He continues to have a strong second season with 20 points (9 G, 11 A) in 22 games. Continue to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats.
News:Anze Kopitar gave the Kings the lead in the first period against Anaheim Thursday, and he assisted on another goal as well.
Analysis: Kopitar has four points in his past three games. Kopitar burst onto the scene as a rookie with 61 points last year and he is already well on his way to eclipsing that mark as a sophomore sensation. Continue to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Kings rallied from a 4-0 deficit Saturday against the Stars and got plenty of help fron Anze Koptiar, who scored two goals in the 6-5 overtime win. Kopitar sliced the Kings' deficit to one goal with 4:01 left in regulation, then connected again 2:34 into overtime. "Before the third period, we said we were going to go all out and show our character and not give up. And it turned out amazing," Kopitar said. "We got the momentum going after the second goal and just took it all the way."
Analysis: Kopitar has three goals in his last five games and seven goals on the season. He also has nine assists. Kopitar burst onto the scene as a rookie with 61 points and he is already well on his way to eclipsing that mark as a sophomore sensation. Continue to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar scored his fifth goal of the season during Saturday's 4-1 win over the Oilers. He now has three goals and three assists in his last six games. He also started the season with a minus-5 rating, but has since raised it to minus-1.
Analysis: Kopitar burst onto the scene as a rookie with 61 points and he is already well on his way to eclipsing that mark as a sophomore sensation. Continue to start Kopitar in all Fantasy formats.
News: Against Calgary Thursday, Mike Cammalleri, Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar scored for Los Angeles (2-6), which has lost six of seven.
Analysis: Kopitar added two assists; he has a team-high 11 points, two more points than LW Michael Cammalleri, and he has four goals in his past four games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Anze Kopitar scored a shorthanded goal in the third period of Tuesday's game, and the Kings connected on all three shots in the shootout to beat Minnesota 4-3, the Wild's first loss of the season. "We seemed really desperate on the ice," Kopitar said. "We were grinding and really buying into the system. We executed the game plan real well and didn't give up a whole bunch of chances, and the ones we had we put in the net."
Analysis: The Kings have struggled mightily during the early going, but that's through no fault of Kopitar. He has managed three goals and eight points in seven games so far this season, but that also comes along with a minus-4 rating. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Anze Kopitar scored two power-play goals for Los Angeles Friday vs. Boston.
Analysis: Kopitar is a solid middle of the road Fantasy forward who is in his second NHL season. He has just the two goals so far this season, but is worth using in larger formats.
News: C Anze Kopitar had the third three-point game of his career and the second three-assist game of his career.
Analysis: Oddly enough, Kopitar's other three-assist game came against St. Louis in the Kings' home opener last season. He has become a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Kings rookie C Anze Kopitar returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Stars after missing 10 games with a back injury. He played for 15:52 and finished with an even rating.
Analysis: It appears safe to get the rookie Kopitar back into active Fantasy lineups. He has 18 goals and 38 assists this season. He has become a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy center in most formats and is worth holding onto in most long-term keeper leagues.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Anze Kopitar's upper body injury is a back ailment and he will be sidelined at least another two weeks. He has missed the past five games due to the injury.
Analysis: Kopitar has seen two specialists concerning the injury and he is working on strengthening the injured area. It is conceivable the Kings could shut him down if his back does not respond to their satisfaction, as there is no reason to risk further aggravation with the team well out of contention. Stay tuned.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Anze Kopitar will not accompany the team on its upcoming four-game, eight-day road trip starting on March 6 at Chicago due to a strained upper body muscle.
Analysis: Kopitar, who has already missed a pair of games, will be sidelined until at least March 12 against the Oilers, which is the next home game for the Kings. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues until the super rookie can officially return and prove his health in consecutive games without any lingering effects of the injury
News: Kings defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky and rookie Anze Kopitar, two of the team's top-four point producers this season, sat out with unspecified injuries on Saturday against the Predators.
Analysis: Kopitar is having an excellent rookie season with 18 goals and 38 assists. When healthy, he is a solid middle of the road Fantasy forward. He is listed as day to day, but not knowing the root of the injury, it is hard to tell when he will be back.
News: Los Angeles rookie Anze Kopitar scored two goals and the Kings beat the Nashville Predators 4-1 Saturday night. Kopitar gave the Kings a 1-0 lead 29 seconds into the middle period. His shot from low inside the right circle bounced off the glove of goalie Tomas Vokoun and came to Lubomir Visnovsky, who fired the rebound back from the left side. That shot caromed off Vokoun to Kopitar, who put the puck in off Vokoun who fell backward in the crease. Kopitar made it 3-0 at 11:55 of the second when he skated with the puck behind the net from the left side and fired a wrist shot past Vokoun from low on the right side.
Analysis: Kopitar currently has a four-game points streak going, in which he has three goals and two assists during that stretch. He now has 16 goals and 34 assists this season. The only downside is that he has a minus-11 rating. Use Kopitar as a high-end Fantasy forward.
News: Anze Kopitar has posted 13 goals and a team-leading 29 assists with a minus-9 rating and 18 penalty minutes through 50 games at the All-Star break.
Analysis: The rookie is second only to Pittsburgh’s Evgeni Malkin (52 points) in scoring among first-year players. He has emerged as a must-start in most Fantasy leagues, especially those which discourage PIM.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar has picked up an assist in the team's last two games to run his season total to 26 assists. He also has 11 goals and a minus-11 rating.
Analysis: If you can deal with the poor plus/minus rating, then Kopitar remains a useful No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy center.
News: Anze Kopitar picked up two assists with a plus-2 rating in 19:52 of ice time in Thursday's game at Edmonton.
Analysis: The rookie has picked up the scoring lately, posting five goals and 11 points over the past eight games. He remains a solid No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward in all formats.
News: Anze Kopitar used his backhand to score at 1:40 in Thursday's game at St. Louis to extend his point streak to five games. "I feel great. I feel confident and comfortable," Kopitar said. "My teammates and my coach have a lot of confidence in me."
Analysis: In his past five games, the 19-year-old center has five goals and three assists. He remains a must-start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Kings C Anze Kopitar, a 19-year-old rookie, had two goals against the Flames on Tuesday. He has had three two-goal games this season, including two in the last three games.
Analysis: Kopitar is currently working on a four-game point streak, where has picked up four goals and three assists. While Evengi Malkin has gotten all the pub as the top rookie this season, Kopitar is quietly putting together a solid season with 10 goals and 21 assists. Consider him a decent No. 3 Fantasy center or better at this time.
News: Anze Kopitar scored two goals and Brust made 34 saves in his first NHL victory, leading Los Angeles to a 4-2 victory over the Sharks on Thursday night.
Analysis: Kopitar is second only to Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin among all NHL rookies in points.
News: Anze Kopitar picked up an assist in Monday's game against New Jersey with a shot on goal in 18:19 of ice time.
Analysis: Kopitar assisted on Cammalleri's goal for his 23rd point, the most among NHL rookies.
News: Rookie Anze Kopitar managed an assist in Monday's game against the Sharks and has two goals and two assists over the past five games.
Analysis: Despite the face the Kings are (3-6-1) in their past 10 games, Kopitar has been an even or in the positive in plus/minus rating. He remains a decent No. 3 or 4 Fantasy center in all formats in his rookie season.
News: Anze Kopitar scored a goal, added an assist and had a plus-2 rating in 20:59 of ice time in Tuesday's game at Colorado.
Analysis: Kopitar leads all rookies with five goals and 16 points. He has scored in two straight games and emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Anze Kopitar picked up two more assists in Sunday's game against the Ducks with a plus-1 rating and two shots on goal in 22:56 of ice time.
Analysis: Kopitar has emerged as a must-start this season, as the rookie is out of the gates quickly.
News: Michael Cammalleri, Alexander Frolov and Anze Kopitar each scored goals and added an assist each in Thursday's game against the Coyotes. The trio combined for six total shots.
Analysis: Each of the three Los Angeles forwards are considered must-starts in all Fantasy leagues. Cammalleri has six points (4 G, 2 A), Frolov has five points (3 G, 2 A) and Kopitar has nine points (3 G, 6 A) in eight games. The Kings have won three games and Frolov has scored in each. Kopitar scored for the first time since lighting the lamp twice in the team's opener on Oct. 6.
News: After a hot start which saw him produce six points (2 G, 4 A) in his first three NHL games, Anze Kopitar has managed just one assist over the past three games.
Analysis: Despite the fact he has slowed down a bit, Kopitar is still worth adding in all Fantasy leagues for his immense potential. He is also a must-have in keeper leagues and should be added immediately if he is still available.
News: Anze Kopitar assisted on Alexander Frolov's power play goal with :17 remaining in the third period of Tuesday's game against the Islanders to extend his point streak to three games.
Analysis: Kopitar, the former first-round pick, has managed two goals and four assists in three games this season. However, his minus-2 rating gives him a plus-1 overall.
News: Sure, it's only two games into the new season, but 19-year-old rookie center Anze Kopitar has earned rave reviews for his play. It's not just his offensive skills that have his teammates talking, but also his poise on the ice and his commitment to defense. One night after scoring two goals in his NHL debut, the Kings' top pick in the 2005 draft (11th overall), had three assists in a 4-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues on Saturday night at Staples Center. It figures to be an eye-opening video session for the New York Islanders' coaches and players as they prepare to face the Kings on Tuesday night. What they'll see is a 6-foot-3, 220-pound power forward who appears to be the real deal.
Analysis: Kings coach Marc Crawford has been impressed enough to give Kopitar more ice time than any of his other forwards, including many veterans such as Craig Conroy, Sean Avery and Scott Thornton. It's reasonable to believe he could soon be the club's No. 1 center, although Craig Conroy continues to fill that role for the moment. Kopitar should be owned in most keeper league formats, but his nice start might make him appealing in any league. If you don't have the roster space to stash him, at least keep an eye on him. He is the most added player in CBS SportsLine Fantasy Hockey leagues this week with a 33 percent change.
News: Anze Kopitar, a 19-year-old rookie from Sweden, scored Los Angeles' first two goals Friday at Anaheim.
Analysis: Kopitar should be owned in most keeper league formats, but his nice start might make him appealing in any league. If you don't have the roster space to stash him, at least keep an eye on him.
News: Rookies Anze Kopitar, a former first-round pick, and Patrick O'Sullivan made the final cut and will begin the regular season with the Los Angeles Kings.
Analysis: Both Kopitar and O'Sullivan are impressive looking prospects, but O'Sullivan might have more Fantasy appeal initially. The two are good looking Fantasy options in keeper formats.
News: Anze Kopitar scored a goal in Monday's preseason game against the Ducks and he also chipped in with a marker during the shootout.
Analysis: The young Kopitar, the 11th pick overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, has a lot of offensive potential and might make this club out of training camp. He is worth a flier in the late rounds on Draft Day when filling out a roster.
News: Anze Kopitar will play with Södertälje SK of the Swedish Elite League in 2005-06.
Analysis: Kopitar, the team's first pick in the 2005 NHL entry draft, is at least two years away from making a splash with the Kings.
