Another Yashin?

In a rather interesting news story published yesterday, it appears we may have discovered another disciple of the "Alexei Yashin School of Hockey". As discussed on this site before in an article entitled "The End Or The Start Of An Era?", I basically gave all the reasons why no NHL team should sign Yashin for any amount of money to play in the NHL. Of course, Yashin ended up playing for Yaroslavl Lokomotiv this season in the Russian SuperLeague, and is now considered an afterthought in terms of being an NHL player. Apparently following in his footsteps will be another New York NHL player: Jaromir Jagr.

According to the Bergen Record, a New Jersey-based newspaper, Jagr is interested in meeting with representatives from Avangard Omsk of the Russian SuperLeague about playing there next season. Avangard GM Anatoly Bardina is heading to New York City to speak to Rangers' GM Glen Sather regarding the status of Alexei Cherepanov. Jagr played for Avangard during the 2004-05 lockout.

Jagr will most likely become a free agent after this season as his option year would only become a realized contract year if he either hit 84 points for the season, or the Rangers make the Eastern Conference Finals. The former will not happen, and the latter seems unrealistic.

"I said a long time ago I have to finish the season. Whatever happens after that, I don’t know," Jagr said to the Bergen Record. "We’ve got a long ways to go. I’m here. I know you don’t see me in some games, but I’m still here."

That doesn't sound like he really wants to be a member of the Rangers any longer, does it?

Back in 2005, ESPN.com reported that Jagr was concerned the salary cap will limit his earning potential. He had considered playing in Russia at that point, so it's not like he hasn't given this much thought. With his dramatic drop-off in the stats category, it is highly unlikely he would find a team willing to shell out $8 million per season for him after this season.

Personally, it appears that Jagr has reverted back to his late days with the Penguins with his apathy and complete uselessness on the ice. He looks uninterested on the ice, and, despite the captaincy, seems unmotivated to take his game to another level. Washington Capitals' fans can relate to that last statement.

Personally, if Jagr wants to go play in Russia next season, I say let him go. As amazing as he once was, he seems to be a shadow of himself now. Age may have caught up to him, but it appears he has no passion any longer, in my opinion. Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich can pay him whatever amount of money to get a listless star show up. After all, they paid him - tax-free - to play there once before. The less physical game and shorter season of the Russian SuperLeague would most likely be the motivating factors in his decision.

In regards to Jagr's impending departure to Russia, here are some of the more memorable Jagr goals and set-ups of all-time.

If you notice, no goals listed past 2000.


Jagr embarrasses Matt Hervey. Hervey played only 35 total NHL games.


Jagr's overtime goal versus Magnitogorsk in 2005.

If this is the last time we see Jagr in the NHL, he certainly would be Hall-of-Fame worthy. However, we still have the NHL playoffs this season, so Jagr's time in the NHL isn't quite done yet.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!