"The biggest reason behind my decision is that I'll be able to play with my brother Gašper. There's such an age difference between us that we've never had the chance to play on the same team and since this may be one and only chance it wasn't a hard decision to make," Kopitar, 25, said in a written statement for Slovenian media.

"I'd like to help Gašper (20), this being his first season on a professional team. I know he'll manage well himself, but if I can contribute anything myself I gladly will," Kopitar said after sealing the deal with Mora.

Mora invested a lot of effort to pay for the expensive insurance. The Slovenian star will be available to the club until the start of the National Hockey League. He is expected to play his first match with the Swedish club on Saturday against Djurgardens IF of Stockholm.

Kopitar started his professional career in Sweden.