LA Kings

LA Kings

The opening period belonged to Winnipeg, who dictated tempo early with a quick transition game and sharp puck movement. Alex Iafallo's power-play goal gave the Jets a 1-0 lead, but the Kings responded with composure rather than panic - tightening their defensive gaps and beginning to cycle effectively down low. Jets' goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was steady in the first, turning aside multiple dangerous chances, including a key save on Adrian Kempe late in the period.

One) The Central Division should be ultra-competitive in 2025-26. Two) The Jets have the oldest roster in the NHL and only got older this offseason. Related: NHL's Top 10 Centres for 2025-26: Preseason Update They let the 29-year-old Nikolaj Ehlers walk in free agency and signed 37-year-old Jonathan Toews, 36-year-old Gustav Nyquist, and 33-year-old Tanner Pearson. Those signings give the Jets an average of 30.17, the only NHL roster with an average age over 30 entering the 2025-26 season.

I was thinking about (a trade) for sure...I was ready for whatever could come, but nothing happened, so I'm here and I'm ready to show my best.

Kopitar is heading into his 20th season with the Kings after being selected 11th overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, and has been the captain for what will be 10 years upon the end of the season. Not only has Kopitar been a great offensive talent, but he has been a perennial Selke Trophy candidate, too. He played a key role in the two Stanley Cup runs the Kings had in the 2010s.

"It was a perfect moment. Sharing these beautiful moments are something that I will never forget and I will always appreciate it - from the fans, the players and the gaffer."