With the Stanley Cup celebrations in Los Angeles dying down, Kings players are starting to scatter to various places to enjoy their shortened summer and spend time with family and friends. Of course, for Anze Kopitar, that meant a trip to his native Slovenia. Kopitar’s day with the Stanley Cup in Slovenia will take place next week, and recently Kopitar spoke with local reporter Aleš Smrekar for an extensive interview. A huge thank you goes out to blog reader ”QueenInVan,” who made an extraordinary effort to translate the interview and email it, so that I could share it with all of you. Here it is…
Question: Congratulations on having the kind of success that, a few years back, Slovenian hockey fans couldn’t even imagine would have any kind of Slovenian ingredient in the mix…
KOPITAR: ”Thank you very much. Maybe the regular season didn’t look as promising, but things turned around in December and ended in the best possible way.”
Question: Hockey and NHL fans are expecting to see the cup from up close. Can you say what this (celebration) is supposed to look like?
KOPITAR: ”Because this is the biggest trophy in hockey, there are a lot of rules. Not everyone can hoist the Cup –- well, no one that wasn’t part of the winning team, or played a part in winning it. There will be some rules. Me personally, and two gentlemen, the cup keepers, will see to it that these rules are known and that there will be no misunderstandings.”
Question: You said it was a lot heavier than you expected before deservingly lifting it…
KOPITAR: ”To be quite honest, I didn’t know what to expect. In the end, they told me it weighs 16 kilos. It wasn’t as heavy at first, but after you hold it for a while, your hands get tired and start to shake –- but that’s not really a problem with all the pleasure you get from it.”
Question: What does one feel when one looks down on such a huge crowd? What was the view like from the top of that bus (during the parade)?
KOPITAR: ”It was really something special. The Kings are 45 years old, and when you finally win that title, it’s truly special. The fans created a great atmosphere. I think there were close to half a million. It’s a day that I’ll remember for a long time, probably forever. I personally enjoyed it very much, so I really expect to have one more day like that.”
Question: It’s hard to compare two completely different worlds, but was you reception at Brnik (airport) and in your home town of Hrušica more touching than celebrations in the U.S.?
KOPITAR: ”I hope I don’t offend anyone. Even though there were a bit more people in LA.., coming home is always best. It was nice to see the crowd at the airport. Even more people were in Hrušica –- indescribably beautiful. I personally cherished these moments.”
Question: We can’t get by the Cup, which is accompanied by a lot of tradition and rituals. Each team member gets a day with the cup. You’ve had it last Sunday when you were seen with it on the beach of the Pacific Ocean.
KOPITAR: ”That wasn’t my official day with the cup; it was just a (bonus). The Cup had no official duties that day, and I asked, a little naively, if I could borrow it for an hour or two. The keepers agreed, and Ines [his girlfriend] and I took it to the beach, and took pictures with it.”
Question: You talk about the Cup as if it were flesh and blood…
KOPITAR: ”Maybe that’s the most special thing about the Cup. Every player talks about it as if it had lungs and breathed. Some say it’s the hardest trophy to win, so it’s that much more special if you can spend time with (it).”
Question: Your New Year’s resolution was to win the Cup even though your team wasn’t doing that well and your fans weren’t sure you’ll make the playoffs at all. Did you really believe you could do it back then?
KOPITAR: ”I think this is a special quality of our team, because we never stopped believing even when times were hard. We knew we weren’t having the best season. In the end, we had 20 games to go, of which we had to win 14. We knew that if that happens, we had a good chance and the right rhythm for the most important part of the season. That really happened; we were on top of our game, which showed in the playoffs.”
Question: Now you’ve come to realize that, at 24, you’ve made your dream, and the dream of many hockey players that don’t even come close to playing in the NHL, come true…
KOPITAR: ”Looking back, it’s really something special. I have, at least I hope I do, a good 10 years of playing hockey and I really hope for another day like this, when we can enjoy it even more.”
Question: It appears that even after winning the championship, you remained well-grounded. Is that part of your champion’s personality, something else, or does it just seem that way to others?
KOPITAR: ”It’s part of my personality, for sure. Maybe I looked calm on the outside, but it was all happiness on the inside. When the whistle sounded the end of the game, all emotions surfaced and it was pure joy.”
Question: The ‘Kopitar Stanley Cup’ project required a lot of hard work, practice, sacrifice and talent…
KOPITAR: ”You can’t learn talent. But if you take advantage of it, it can take you all the way, and not just in hockey. I was lucky, but it was also a lot of hard work. Now I can say that I’m on top of the world.”
Question: There’s no question about your star status in Hrušica and the rest of Slovenia, but what about L.A.?
KOPITAR: ”You get recognized more, now that we’ve won the Cup. Once the Clippers and Lakers were out of the NBA playoffs, we were the only ones left. Along with the baseball players, but their season was just starting. The Kings were the talk of the town, so we get recognized more than ever before.”
Question: Your father, Matjaž Kopitar, an excellent hockey player and selector of the Slovenian national hockey team, introduced you to skating when you were 3 and a half. Your talent became obvious quickly, but when did you recognize your incredible hockey talent?
KOPITAR: ”It’s hard to single out any given year that you realize things are heading in the right direction. The turning point was the 2005 NHL Draft, when I was a first-round pick. Before that, I knew my hockey career was going well, but once you’re drafted, you realize you’re doing something right, and that you have to build on that. I can maybe single out that day, even though I knew I had a long way to go, but I think everything began then.”
Question: Before you left for Sweden, you still played in Slovenia with the second senior Jesenice team. You played against your father, who played for Maribor. Matjaž said that it was extremely hard for him. Do you remember that game?
KOPITAR: ”I think it was much more difficult for him than it was for me. As a 15-year old, I didn’t realize how uncomfortable he was. It was an interesting situation. I got into a more serious battle, not really a fight, and my father came flying towards me, but pushed the other guy -– his teammate -– away more than he did me. After that, I think we played against each other only once or twice. It’s much easier to play against my brother, and even easier to play with my brother and father.”
Question: Speaking of uncomfortable, your parents say that it was extremely so when you left for Södertälje, Sweden, (at age) 16 to gain some invaluable experience. Was it the same for you?
KOPITAR: ”At 16, you may think that you’re ready, but once the day comes, you find out pretty quickly that you can never be fully ready to take that step. I know it was the best thing to do, if I wanted to play hockey. I had already conquered the Slovenian league by then and needed a new challenge. I remember that day as if it were yesterday. We were at the airport in Celovec (Austria), many tears were shed and many beautiful things were said. The arrival in Sweden was also hard, when you land, you realize you’re all alone and you have to take care of yourself. That made me stronger in the long run. If I were 16 again, I would choose an identical path.”
Question: You quickly became very successful in Sweden and then the draft day came. On June 30th, 2005, you were drafted, which was no surprise. Maybe it was a surprise that you were only the 11th pick, and not higher…
KOPITAR: ”In April, at the (World Championships) in Innsbrueck, I had a meeting with the sports director form Columbus. I was ranked sixth overall, and they had the sixth pick. I personally was convinced that they were going to pick me, and felt terrible when they didn’t. Then you start to doubt. ‘If they didn’t pick me, and they were so sure they were going to, is anyone going to?’ But when L.A. called my name, it was a huge relief.”
Question: To get to the top of the world, an athlete needs some lucky breaks. What would your role be if (another team) picked you?
KOPITAR: ”It’s impossible to say. At that moment, I realized I was L.A.’s first choice, and that was most important to me. I can’t imagine what it would be like anywhere else. L.A. is my second home and can only compare to my, our Hrušica. Maybe the place is a little bigger, but all of my family and I feel great there and that’s the most important thing.”
Question: Your first NHL game was on Oct. 6, 2006, and you scored two goals against Anaheim. Were you surprised at all?
KOPITAR: ”Very. I was quite nervous before the first game. I played well in the first period and felt that I could play well against players like Pronger, Niedermayer or Selanne. Then your confidence rises, and you tell yourself that this is the game you played ever since you were a kid, and that you know how to play it. In the second period, I scored twice. Then you know you belong and you have to play your best game, which is the goal of every athlete. This debut was special by all means.”
Question: In your first interview after this game, you answered in excellent English, which has now, after six years in the States, become real American English. The (language) game you played with your grandmother paid off, or do we reporters blow this out of proportion?
KOPITAR: ”Maybe you do make more out of it then it really was. But it did happen. When I was little I wanted to play hockey someplace other than Slovenia. English is the most common language, so I decided to learn it, since I was going to need it for when I was interviewed. I already had a vision of what I wanted to do, and where. My dream came true. It’s hard to describe how happy I am now. One more time: We won the Stanley cup and we’re the NHL champions, and we’re on top of the world.”
Question: Despite the fact that you barely made the playoffs, you went all the way. How did that happen?
KOPITAR: ”The playoffs are a different season. Once you’re in, it’s a race to four wins. This year we knew that once you’re in, you have every chance to win the championship. We beat the first, second and third seeds in the Western Conference. You have to make it to the Final and the hottest team wins. In the locker room, we believed we could do it.”
Question: The beard is a special part of the playoffs…
KOPITAR: ”Just growing the beard is special. Mine wasn’t as thick, so it wasn’t too itchy. It’s a great feeling to shave it off, and people get to see your normal face the next day.”
Question: Family is very important to you; it is part of the winning formula. Are your family ties getting even stronger?
KOPITAR: ”Yes, it’s one of the most beautiful aspects. The moments after our win, when everybody came out onto the ice and we were hugging, rejoicing and also crying a little, and in the end took pictures with the Cup. Those are the moments you want to spend with your family. They will be with us forever.”
Question: Slovenians like to look at things from the money side of things. In 2008, you signed a seven-year contract worth more than 47 million dollars. Some would say to hang on until 2015, and then you never have to work again. I’m sure you look at things quite differently?
KOPITAR: ”Hockey is my life. My contract ends in four years, and my goal is to play for another good 10 years. This is hockey love, which is hard to understand for some. Even if the sums weren’t as high in the NHL, I would still want to get here and play.”
Question: Given the type of personality you are and that you are surrounded by family, I’m sure you invest the money wisely.
KOPITAR: ”I have a manager that makes sure all my taxes are paid and the like. Of course, I have a say in the matter, but I know she does a great job. I trust her and she has proven that she is the right choice time and again.”
Question: Charity and professional sports go hand in hand. Not just because you have the financial means, but also because you see and hear many things…
KOPITAR: ”There are many sad stories that come to the players’ attention. That’s how we decide what groups to help and how to do it. These may be children in need, cancer patients, or families that can’t afford vacation or school supplies for their kids. There are many opportunities for charity work, and I personally chose to do it through a golf tournament. Some teammates decide on the amount (of money) and multiply it by the goals they score. We are all very proud to be able to help out.
Question: You mentioned that golf lets you get away from hockey for a while. Do you play a lot?
KOPITAR: ”Maybe too much, they’re starting to be upset with me at home. I relax when I’m surrounded by nature. All I see around me are trees and green. I’m a very intense golfer. If things don’t go my way, it might not be so relaxing! Throughout the season, I’m always indoors — the rink, the locker room, resting at home — so getting some fresh air is one of the best things for me.”
Question: Are you one of the better golfers among hockey players?
KOPITAR: ”Not yet. I hope I will be one of the best someday.”
Question: How is your summer going to look? Your father, Matjaž, can’t wait for you to start practicing like your brother Gašper…
KOPITAR: ”Gašper has been practicing for some time now, since his season ended sooner than mine. He practiced in L.A. during the playoffs. I still get some time off, but I’ll soon be heading to the fitness room and start running.”
Question: But you’ll get to go away for a day or two with Ines?
KOPITAR: ”That would be nice, hopefully I can get a long weekend. There will certainly be negotiations at home.”
Kopi already talking about hitting the fitness room again…you know winning the cup once isn’t enough for him.
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Verno Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:51 pm
Kopitar’s a great dude. Him along with all of the other Slovene’s I’ve met were amazing.
Also, It’s incredible how sports can bring families closer together.
Thanks to ”QueenInVan.
Hockey shreds. Go Kings.
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What a great interview. I like the part where his dad shoved his own team mate away from his son.
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Stuart Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:00 pm
@Howe9, totally! an outstanding interview!
Thank you @QueenInVan!!! And thank you Rich!
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kinglouie Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 6:58 pm
@Howe9, I completely agree. Great interview and great translation. No one that day when he left for Sweden could ever have imagined what happened two weeks ago. Truly a success story.
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QueenInVanDownByTheRiver deserves a little something for that effort. Wow. At the very least, maybe a photo with Fraser when he brings it up your way.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
@Paul Armbruster (Queen’sPropsDuly.com),
That’s more Willie Mitchell territory, n’est-ce pas?
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Revealing interview. Kopitar being comfortable in L.A., Slovenian’s being interested in the money aspect of the game, how much golf he likes to play, nice to learn a little more about him. Hockey players are the best, hands down.
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Token Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:24 pm
@Donald_S, When your first NHL contract is worth 0.1% of your whole country’s annual GDP, it be a big deal.
I’d say he can retire in Slovenia a rich man.
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Zorzi Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:04 pm
@Token, He can retire a rich man anywhere.
But don’t be fooled living in similar sized town in US is cheaper then living in Slovenia (or most EU countries for that matter). Everything except night life and extreme luxury is cheaper in US.
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Great read, thanks
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kopi….
los angeles loves you…
you have entered the realm among the cities greatest athletes – whether or not you believe that, it’s true…
enjoy yr summer and how yr hard work and dedication to yr profession, to yr providence and to yr fans has inspired countless people around the world…
you might be the biggest celebrity in slovenia, but yr number one with a bullet in this city…and peeps are starting to take notice of how important to the la sports landscape you’ve become…
we won’t take you for granted because we know you won’t take it for granted…:)
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:20 pm
@variable,
That post should be converted into a “billboard” on the Sunset Strip!
But only should Rodney Bingenheimer approve.
(I wonder what gave me this idea … )
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variable Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 1:46 am
@Duncanz,
hehe….
do i get a percentage…?!
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BringBackTheShieldJersey Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:02 pm
@variable, re. los angeles loves you…
Listen (again) to the crowd as The Cup is passed around. Huge cheer when Brown gets it (obviously). A good cheer when Mitchell gets it. A nice cheer for Gagne. Then a HUGE cheer for Kopitar. Remember, a couple of years ago Kopitar was selected by fans as their favorite King player of all time. Kopitar, Brown, and Quick will always be extra special to Kings fans. Those three players (and Doughty, unless he keeps acting like a spoiled frat boy) are going to have their numbers retired by the Kings.
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variable Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 1:46 am
@BringBackTheShieldJersey,
yeppers…
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good read, thanks rich and @queeninvan
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paige Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
@vinny, agreed. that was a really compelling interview. Thanks for sharing it
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@QueenInVan hereforth known as the “The Translator”!
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Lake Forest Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:36 pm
@Shakes, – in a van down by the river
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And just think – Kopi, Brown, DD, VV, AMart, and a couple others haven’t hit their prime yet, Carter, MR, and few others are just hitting their prime now. Man, this is going to be a scary team for the next few years.
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Cruiznblue Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:34 pm
@DesertKing,
Dont forget Nolan…and more notably King. I think King is going to get much better when he gets more experience and confidence. He’s got the size, shot and stick control already working for him….decent speed too.
And we still have some great prospects that could make an impact on the team very soon as well.
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DesertKing Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:25 pm
@Cruiznblue,
Even better!
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:29 pm
@Cruiznblue, Absolutely!
If Kinger keeps developing at the rate he has up till now, he can easily be a mighty good top 6 forward in this league.
I believe he could have as much upside as any forward on the roster right now!
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KC23 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
@DesertKing, Yeah, DL has done one heck of a job putting this team together. I think we’re gonna get spoiled for a while. Finally the King’s will no long be assiciated with failure, but with success.
Great interview. I hope Brown, Kopitar and Quick all finish their careers with the Kings.
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So the brain trust over in Columbus chose Gilbert Brulé over Kopitar. Too funny!
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BobsYourUncle Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:10 pm
@Cav Pilot, Exactly! I didn’t know that Columbus was interested in taking him at #6, too bad for them! Great for us!
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CB14 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:14 pm
@Cav Pilot, Yup. Imagine what a difference that would’ve made huh? They’ve been looking for a Center to play alongside Rick Nash ever since he was drafted, and they passed by a guy who would’ve been a perfect fit. Kopi and Nash on one line would’ve been deadly.
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CupRun2013 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:31 pm
@Cav Pilot, Yeah! Interesting…CBJ takes Brule withe their 6th pick, we get Kopi…Last year we try to trade Smyth for Brule and end up with Fraser. Brule wasn’t given a qualifying off from PHX, and will be a UFA on 7/1…
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Kinger Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:35 pm
@Cav Pilot, I think we go the better end of that decision! He’s had a total of 95 points in his entire career. Ouch! Thanks again Columbus!
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Cav Pilot Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:44 pm
@Kinger, The whole Columbus franchise has been such a train wreck. I must admit though, I do take some pleasure in seeing them stumble. My corporate HQ is in CMH so I work with a bunch of myopic OSU/BJ fans.
They are a team defined by wasted draft picks, dumb trades and bad free agent signings that no one wants to play for. Come to think of it, they kind of remind me of a modern version of the old Kings.
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Deke'r Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:40 pm
@Cav Pilot, …..Des-tin-y….Des-tin-y…..
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KingMe20 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:54 pm
@Cav Pilot,
Knowing what we know now, how lucky are we that Anaheim didn’t pick him at #2? It may be unfair to criticize the Canucks for Luc Bourdon, because we don’t know what he might have become, but the fact that guys like JMFJ, Benoit Pouliot, Jack Skille, Devin Setoguchi, and Brian Lee were all drafted ahead of him is kind of mind blowing. Maybe those teams didn’t need a center, but I have a hard time believing that at least 9 of those teams aren’t still kicking themselves for passing on him.
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LA_1968 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:08 pm
@Cav Pilot, Yep. Big mistake by Columbus, and all the other teams above the Kings except Pittsburgh and maybe Anaheim. I didn’t realize Jack Johnson was taken third in that same draft either.
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Cav Pilot Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:31 pm
@LA_1968, So was some goalie named Quick. 72nd overall in the 3rd round. I wonder if he ever amounted to anything? :-0
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“…I think there were close to half a million [at the parade]“… and so the reported crowd size will grow as the years past. In like a span of only 2-3 weeks Kopi has already doubled the numbers. What a hero! You try and find me a player who can produce like that!
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Paul Armbruster (KingsNewsDaily.com) Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:00 pm
@Shakes, Soon it will be the “Million Fan March!”
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vinny Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 7:41 pm
@Shakes, lol i thought the same
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:04 pm
@& Bakes,
That figure is as volatile as Insider bloggers’ wild guesstimations on JQ’s upcoming 95 yr/ 9 Bil new Kings contract …
We 32 Mil Kings fans forever love you, Quicker!
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Rules huh? What role did M. Parry play exactly? And yes I’m just jealous.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:41 pm
@Jeff,
Agreed!
He provided AK an opportunity to drink unlimited Red Bull out of the Cup with a hammy TV hack in the Hollywood Hills.
Come on, Kopi!
When are you going to take me up on my offer of an unlimited supply of PBR and pretzels in the Pahrump Valley??
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Sparman Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 8:16 am
@Jeff,
And didn’t Beckham hoist The Cup as well?
I guess some rules can be bent, a little.
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I was fortunate enough to be in attendance in Anaheim for Kopitar’s first ever NHL game (and first two career goals) and I was even more fortunate to be at Staples during game 6 to see Kopitar lift Lord’s Stanley Cup over his head. He is such a great example of a professional hockey player (or any professional athlete for that matter) and we as Kings fans are so glad he is an LA King. He is definitely one of my all time favorite Kings players of all time. Can’t wait until next season! GO KINGS!!!
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CB14 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:11 pm
@BobsYourUncle, I wasn’t there, but I remember him blowing by Pronger like he was standing still. What a great way to introduce yourself to the NHL.
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KingMe20 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:55 pm
@CB14,
One of the best goals I’ve ever seen a player get for his first, though Mario Lemieux’s is probably still the best.
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Darrell Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:05 pm
@CB14, I remember a few years ago they asked Pronger about that goal and whether he thought Anze would be a special player and he said (with a sideways glance) that he didn’t remember it.
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CB14 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:46 pm
@Darrell, I didn’t realize whiplash caused memory problems.
Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:48 pm
@Darrell,
He forgets quite a lot of things, does that boy.
Wonder if he remembered to send his old teammates in EDM, Stollie & Greener, a note of congratulations on their turn hoisting the Stanley Cup this year?
Munchrat Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:15 pm
@BobsYourUncle, +10
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HBFan Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:19 pm
@BobsYourUncle, I was at both of those games too. It was apparent from that first game that we had something special. I bought my first of three Kope jerseys the next day
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That was a great interview! You’ve got to love this kid–he’s so down to earth and humble…and he’s just getting better and better every year on the ice. I’ve said it before–there isn’t another player in the league I’d rather have. This guy is a keeper–hopefully he’ll never play for another NHL team….
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ziggyfan Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:12 pm
@rontheking, I feel the same way and I can see number 11 on the rafter…….
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Thanks so much Rich great article and reading as LA We Love Kopi!
All our guys are the best dang Hockey team In The World!
Go Kings Go!
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Kopitar is so humble,how lucky us fans and the kings are to have him.Great intervue Rich.Thank You.
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Big, BIG thank you to @Queeninvan for taking the time to put that interview into an email for Rich! If I had put my typing talents to use on this it’d be done sometime during next years SCP’s…maybe. Thanks again!
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I’m not so sure about “Stanley’s” rules….
I was able to lift the Cup at a private party
Given by some friends a few years back…
Maybe they have changed the rules since then….
Maybe because it was a private party I was able too…
Took my kinda step-daughter with me and it was stupendous…
As I approached the trophy it hit me how important it was to me…
I’ll never forget that day…
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SLIM Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 3:47 pm
@SLIM,
Also so happy for Kopi…He turned it up a notch…
And thanks to QueeninVan for his part….And Rich of course…
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Lake Forest Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:48 pm
@SLIM, her part
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
@Lake Forest,
Jeez, makes me wonder if that was actually his step-son he took to that party.
He kinda didn’t sound sure about that either.
Nothing more telling about his personality than him starting out a response to a question about his two homes with, “I hope I don’t offend anyone.” To me, that says he really does care about the people in Los Angeles and in Hrušica, and wants to remain connected to both places for his career. It also says that he’s consciously aware of his importance to both places, and that he wants to represent both as well as he can.
I am so proud that my mother’s family’s country of origin is so well represented by Anže.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:56 pm
@KingMe20,
Particularly since he was being interviewed in Slovenia(n) and couldn’t possibly have anticipated @QueenInVan doing a U.N.-quality job like she did there!
Very, errr diplomatic!
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pigIron Reply:
June 29th, 2012 at 3:57 pm
@Duncanz,
I understand that enthusiasm of fans.I’m sure the whole team is aware that the regular part of season was under expectations. Next season will be especially very tough, in spite of the fact that the core team remained practically intact. All teams will want and will try to take their scalp.
As I know, Anze is a particularly a good man. The whole his success is undoubtedly linked with life’s beliefs, which are kept in the family and of course to his love to sport, hockey, and persistent, hard work. About the given talent, there is no doubt.
However, I’m sure, he’s not said the last word, yet.
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LuckyEleven Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:04 pm
@KingMe20, I had the same reaction when I read those words. Anze is the cream of the crop when it comes to integrity. A rarity in professional sports especially to that degree. I love this guy.
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Rich,
Last summer with his leg injury, Kopi’s workout was changed up a bit to concentrate on upperbody. Then as soon as possible, leg workouts with more parachuted running, and lunges. The guy was a beast (even when that line wasn’t scoring consistantly).
With 2 healthy legs now, and 2 extra months of game situations during the playoffs, what is the plan for this summers workout program?
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Cav Pilot Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 5:51 pm
@Dominick (defrim65), Kopi’s strongest muscle is between his ears. We all know what a complete player he is.Even though he wasn’t in the running (ECB), I think Kopi is the true Selke winner. His 2 way play is the best in the league.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:07 pm
@Cav Pilot,
… as opposed to DD’s strongest muscle!
Hey, just sayin’ …
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I loath and will cry the day this guy dons another teams colors(lets hope DL never allows that to happen)! with the exception of Nick Lidstrom and a few others i dont think there is a player out there that epitomizes what a quality human being / exceptional Hockey player is more than Kopitar. My favorite player…hands down! Thank you Dave Taylor!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 6:34 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, Kopitar is not going anywhere anytime soon.
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Im calling it now….Kopi will have a career best year next year! barring any accidents / Injuries I think he finally has the supporting staff and increased confidence to be a top 5 player in this league! I also think he will take the Selke within the next couple years.
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KC23 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 4:32 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, Probably a good call. Brown’s confidence at LW is sky high and of course Williams is the perfect compliment player for both of them. King’s are going to be a handful to play against next year.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
@BrokeKingsFan, @KC23,
In fact, were it not for the sterling Brownie, our very own No.11 could be headed for a Mark Messier Award, also!
Guess he’ll just have to wait his turn, like ‘The King’ … and ‘The Qrab’…
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He’s on top of the world.
Best part of the article to me.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:14 pm
@LA_1968,
Looking down on creation …
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Interviewer didn’t mention that he had has ankle snapped a year before. What a come back. He’ll be scary next year. Agree with @BrokeKingsFan above that Selke is coming soon. He’ll be on highlights 10x more this year… because it’s the Cup.
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We are oh so very lucky to have Kopi donning a Kings Jersey. The man is selfless & a class act all the way. Players like Clowe, Doan, Smith & Elias should take some lessons from a real class act like Kopi. Enjoy the view from the top of the world Kopi. You certainly deserve it!
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Just a great read. Thanks for translating @QueenInVan! Really appreciate it!
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I’m impressed by how articulate Kopi sounds even translated. He’s a strong English speaker after all these years, but he sounds like quiet a well spoken guy when speaking in his native tongue.
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I like this..
“I had already conquered the Slovenian league by then and needed a new challenge.”
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grega11 Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 2:52 am
@MK Ultra, at age 15…
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Massive shout out to QueenofVan for an amazing job of translation. Not as though it were a four paragraph interview.
As for Kopi, yes he may be a gem of a hockey player, but he gives every indication of being a double gem of a human being. How great is that? Seems right up there with the Lidstrom’s and Yzerman’s of the world.
Bravo Kopi. Well done!!
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I called it before and am calling it again. Selke for Kopi next year!!
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HockeyNerd Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
@ziggyfan, A Selke trophy winner that ALSO gets a point a game? Sounds like an MVP too……
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There’s a very regal quality to the translated dialogue.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:17 pm
@Kenny44,
… is that because Kopi came out of a coach?
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This IS Your Life, Anze Kopitar….
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Real 7 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 6:10 pm
@Real 7, Ralph Edwards hosted 1952-1961….
http://www.thisisyourlife.com/tiyl.html?id_tiyl=0627TL619169
I couldn’t expect you younger Kings fans to remember this, but it was part of my growing-up
experience….almost never missed an episode….
while reading the interview with Kopi, I couldn’t help thinking about that show…
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Sorry Rich, but I need to ask- did football season start early in Chicago?
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I think I love the man…
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:21 pm
@Australian King,
Anze is the Kings’ ‘Ayers Rock’ !
(btw, nice initials … AK..)
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Great interview, but does nobody else seem troubled that he suggested that he wants to play in Slovenia sometime in the future? Obviously, he’s under contract for 4 years, but other players have returned home.
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Deke'r Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 7:47 pm
@MartinRW, …..it is his life….just enjoy the time he is here….
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Kingstane9 Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 9:21 pm
@MartinRW, don’t be afraid, maybe at age 40. Well at least I believe so, why would he really? …also he said he wants to have a long career, 10+ years. National team is completely different story, next year hopefully we see him back, but if the Kings go deep in the playoffs again that won’t happen.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:23 pm
@Kingstane9,
So which is it, National Team or SC 2013?
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Zorzi Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:16 pm
@Duncanz, Soci 2014
Zorzi Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:16 pm
@Duncanz, and SC 2013
Kingstane9 Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 3:18 am
@Duncanz, honestly I’d take both, if I could. Like I said it before, simply can’t understand why the NHL and WC or OG can’t coexist normally. Makes me angry every time I think about it. Of course would love to see him play for both if that was possible, but… Just as important as he is for the Kings same gees for our nat team. Well if I have to choose one, it’s SC 2013
I’m so happy for this guy, he must have been absolutely GUTTED last season having to watch the playoffs from the sidelines…I’m surprised nobody mentions this in their interviews (at least the ones I’ve read).
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Kopi is such a classy and humble guy. Great that the rest of the country and the world got to see first hand in the playoffs and finals his all world talent. One of the best 2 way players in the game. Really hope he finally becomes a superstar in this league.
He should be considered for the selke every year now.
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seanster48 Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 9:31 am
@Kingfish, AGREED, when he spoke at the rally, he seemed very genuine and very thankful to LA fans!! they are All part of a very special fraternity now “2012 STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS”
to me, he comes off as the “consumate professional” on and off the ice.
THANK GOD HE IS ON OUR TEAM!! GO KINGS GO!! thanks to QueenInVan for a great story.
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When will we be hearing and “the Kings select Gasper Kopitar”. Kopi has a great future in 4 years I hope we can sign him for the rest of his career, same with Brown in 2 years, and Quicky starting July 1st. Its easy to see where alot of the championship character comes from in this interview.
Go Kings Go!
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What a consummate professional. You gotta love this guy’s composure for a 24 yr. old. Such a solid guy and unmatched character. I have been impressed with him from day one both on and off the ice. I hope he remains a King for his entire career. I watched those interviews Rich posted just to see what the atmosphere in Slovenia was like surrounding Kopi. I had no idea what was being said, so a HUGE thanks to QueenInVan for the translation. That was a great read.
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Duncanz Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
@LuckyEleven,
‘Our Queen In Ljubljana’ …
(@variable?)
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Thank you, Rich… great read!
I like the more down-to-earth flavor of the foreign language questions and answers. Kopi really seemed at home with the interview (pun intended).
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Kempman Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 1:57 am
@King John, Also, he never says “you know” in Slovenian…
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Hey everyone, you’re welcome!
@Duncanz is right, it’s Queen in Ljubljana now, I should change my handle.
I don’t post as much, because of the time difference, but I do read the blog.
The good thing about being in this particular time zone is that next Friday I get to go see the Cup! Yay!
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Duncanz Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 12:06 am
@QueenInVan,
My quip above was a play on the Greene(!) movie, ‘Our Man In Havana’ (1963).
Better would have been … OurMa’amInLjubljana..
Now, just put a “@” in front, and you’re a new Regina!
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QueenInVan Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 4:12 am
@Duncanz, Got it! Saw the movie too.
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Kempman Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 1:56 am
@QueenInVan, Great job with the translation!
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Real 7 Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 2:38 am
@QueenInVan, AHHH! The Queen of Slovenia….we bow to your linguistic skills….
[how do you say Thank You in Slovenian?]
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QueenInVan Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 4:13 am
@Real 7, Hvala!
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Real 7 Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 7:19 am
@QueenOfSlovenia, Hvala! Hvala! Hvala!
4tee Reply:
June 28th, 2012 at 10:13 am
@QueenInVan,
Apparently there is no Slovenian word for “obviously” or the phrase “It is what it is”.
Great interview. When is his Golf tournament?
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kopi also said that JW is one of his guests in golf tounament this saturday! how cool is that:)
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who has the rights to Kopi’s brother? is he any good? is there any chance he might be a king someday?
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Thank you to “QueenInVan”! Outstanding contribution.
“. . . you have to take care of yourself. That made me stronger in the long run. If I were 16 again, I would choose an identical path.”
“L.A. is my second home and can only compare to my, our Hrušica. Maybe the place is a little bigger, but all of my family and I feel great there . . .”
“My dream came true. It’s hard to describe how happy I am now.”
“Hockey is my life. My contract ends in four years, and my goal is to play for another good 10 years. This is hockey love, which is hard to understand for some. Even if the sums weren’t as high in the NHL, I would still want to get here and play.”
“There are many sad stories that come to the players’ attention. That’s how we decide what groups to help and how to do it. These may be children in need, cancer patients . . . There are many opportunities for charity work . . . We are all very proud to be able to help out.”
“I relax when I’m surrounded by nature. All I see around me are trees and green. . . Throughout the season, I’m always indoors — the rink, the locker room, resting at home — so getting some fresh air is one of the best things for me.”
Anze Kopitar is quality. As has been elsewhere stated, along with Brown and Quick, the life-force of this team.
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Seriously, how lucky are we to have Kopitar? How crazy is it that he fell to us in the draft?
I remember his first goal like it was yesterday – against the Ducks, 1 on 1 vs. Pronger, skating around him like he was a pylon. I remember thinking “hmmmmm, what have we here?”
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Beautiful interview. =)
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