Jagr's NHL Career Appearing To Be Over

With the Rangers recent signing of F Markus Naslund, it became pretty clear that the Rangers were not going to re-sign F Jaromir Jagr. Even though there was interest from other teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Edmonton Oilers, Jagr has decided to take his career to Russia. Jagr will accept a 2 year $20 million deal with Avangard Omsk, which he played for during the 2004-2005 lockout season, with a third year option included.

"I'm thankful for the three years I had in New York. They were great years. I understand that I'm older and the team decided to go in a different direction because they couldn't get the deal done," said Jagr regarding why the Rangers did not re-sign him.

"Don't forget I'm from Europe. Russia is nothing new for me. It's close to the Czech Republic. It would be different for American or Canadian players but for me, I enjoy it. The people love hockey and I had a great time out there," said Jagr.

The 36 year old from the Czech Republic was an 8-time NHL all-star and was awarded the Hart trophy as NHL's MVP in 1999. Jagr has also won the Art Ross trophy 4 times for being the NHL's leading scorer and of course 2 Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 91' and 92'.

In his 17 NHL seasons Jagr has played 1,273 games with stints in Pittsburgh, Washington and New York. Jagr has scored 646 goals and 943 assists for a grand total of 1,599 career NHL points.