Thousands of people in Slovenia might have a hard time getting up for work Monday.
Anze Kopitar is to blame.
The Kings forward will become the first Slovenian player in any sport to participate in an All-Star Game in the United States today.
The game in Atlanta starts at 3 p.m. on the West Coast but the nine-hour time difference means it won't be over until around 3a.m. in Kopitar's homeland.
"It's pretty crazy how they keep up with me, despite the time difference," Kopitar said. "I hope nobody gets fired to watch me."
Of course, many in Slovenia are used to much worse. Some people, including Kopitar's grandfather, plan their schedule around watching Kings games that can go until 7 a.m.
Coffee must be a key import in the small European country that borders Austria.
People don't seem to mind sacrificing sleep to see Kopitar, the first Slovenian player in the NHL.
"He's a hero back home," said Marko Mayver, who works for the Slovenian Consulate in Washington. "He probably has Wayne Gretzky-level fame. He's one of the most famous athletes in Slovenia. Everyone is so proud of him."
Kopitar a King in his homeland (Daily News) 
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