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Jaromir Jagr will no doubt go down in the history books as one of the greatest hockey players to ever lace up his skates.
The active leader in career points and just second on that list all-time behind Wayne Gretzky, Jagr is already one of the most accomplished players in the history of the sport. But right now the 45-year-old, 26-year NHL veteran finds himself a free agent during the 2017 offseason.
In normal circumstances the fact that a man pushing 50 finds himself not getting calls from a professional American sports league would not be news, but Jagr played in all 82 games for the Florida Panthers last season and put up an impressive 16 goals and 30 assists during his time on the ice. Having previously expressed his desire to play until he’s at least 50 (which, judging by last season at least appears very doable), Jagr decided to take his frustrations with free agency to social media, posting two tweets poking a bit of light-hearted fun at his long career and current player status.
Everywhere I look,I read:all FA getting calls from10-12teams. Me0 calls.On the contrary,I’m trying to call them,and no ones picking up.😀😳🇨🇿
— Jaromir Jagr (@68Jagr) June 29, 2017
FA 1994- all GMs called , FA 2017- 0 calls🏆😀 pic.twitter.com/7uLJm95CAB
— Jaromir Jagr (@68Jagr) June 29, 2017
During his 26 NHL seasons, Jagr has spent time with the Penguins, Capitals, Rangers, Flyers, Stars, Bruins, Devils, and Panthers, meaning that he has played for literally a quarter of the league. As of now, ESPN reports that the Panthers are still in “cordial” talks with Jagr’s agent, and resigning the veteran is by no means off the table. Said Florida general manager Dale Tallon, “We’ve got until September, October.”
If the Panthers ultimately decide to pass on Jagr, he’ll still have plenty of contacts in the league including his impressive roster of former teams, and could provide a tried and true veteran presence in any NHL locker room.
He’d probably prefer a five-year contract, but if he remains a free agent for a few more months, chances are he’d be willing to sign a shorter deal.