If you’re talking about a farewell tour for Calgary Flames star Jaromir Jagr, he isn’t interested in hearing about it.
In what Jagr says is likely his final NHL season, the legend who is playing in his 24th season isn’t interested in a farewell tour.
“First of all, I don’t think like that,” Jagr said when asked about the possibility of playing in Washington for the final time in his career. “I’m trying to concentrate on every shift, every minute with the opportunity I’ve got.”
Jagr, 45, skated on the Florida Panthers 1st line last season but Calgary has him skating on the 3rd line for them this season.
“That’s a different role than I’ve ever been on,” Jagr said about his role with the Flames.
“I don’t mind it. It’s a new challenge. I’ve got to do stuff differently than I’m used to, but there are big opportunities, I would say. I don’t have to play much minutes, so if I’m ready we can score from the third line.”
Jagr who ranks third with 766 NHL goals behind Wayne Gretzky (894) and Gordie Howe (801), and is second in points with 1,920 behind Gretzky (2,857), is playing in a limited role this season after playing in all 82 games last season.
“Things happen. They happen for a reason. So I’m not really complaining,” Jagr said. “It’s part of the game. I was pretty lucky last year. Not that lucky this year, but it’s OK.”
“He’s loving the chance to work with and speak with Johnny,” Flames coach Glen Gulutzan said.
“He thinks Johnny’s [Gaudreau] a real good player, and I always thought in Dallas and here he’s been really good for our young players. He stays out [on the ice]. They see him out there. He loves the game. He’s in the gym after. He’s always open to talk with them about the game and different things.”
Jagr has played a mentor role for both Gaudreau, Sam Bennett and rookie center Mark Jankowski.
The Flames have found success this season and hope to continue it as the campaign wears on.
“The way they play every night is the reason why we have the record we have,” Jagr said of the 12-8-0 Flames. “I’m impressed they go every night and I really appreciate that every shift.”
Jagr has six points (one goal, five assists) in 11 games this season.
“Every time I have a chance to do something, I have to do it,” he said. “I’m not going to get [many] opportunities.”
“He’s not in it for the accolades,” Gulutzan said. “I think he’s pretty secure in himself in those regards. He’s playing because he loves it, and I think people respect that and his teammates respect that.”
