Top-line center Anze Kopitar probably won’t play Saturday afternoon against the Chicago Blackhawks at Staples Center because of a sprained right knee suffered almost two weeks ago while playing in Sweden during the NHL lockout. Kopitar didn’t rule out playing Saturday, but he didn’t exactly rule himself in the lineup, either.

“Feeling pretty good,” Kopitar said Thursday. “I’ve had a couple of days of full practice with the team and it didn’t swell up on me, didn’t feel sore. So, I guess I’m on the right track. I was just talking with (athletic trainer) Chris (Kingsley). The doors are not completely shut. We’d much rather playing 47 games or 46 instead of playing this one and having a major setback. I’m not concerned about my stability or anything.

“It’s encouraging and I think I’m on the right track.”

The Kings have two days of practice scheduled after Saturday’s opener against the Blackhawks before facing the Colorado Avalance on Tuesday in Denver, two more days for Kopitar to rehabilitate his knee.

“Well, we’ll go on the medical,” Kings coach Darryl Sutter said when asked if Kopitar might play against Chicago. “I’m not trying to be mysterious or anything, but it’s his 13th day (since he was hurt in a collision while playing in Sweden). Today was his first day of contact. He’s doubtful (for Saturday), that’s for sure.”