KIDWCKED
02-21-2010, 03:23 PM
c\p from espn
VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- With a big grin and a quick start to his Olympics, 38-year-old Jaromir Jagr is flirting with a return to the NHL.
The 18-year league veteran, who left for Russia's top professional division in 2008, seemed delighted Friday by the possibility of a return season in North America.
Jagr
"They treat me so well in Russia, but at the same time, maybe I want to try to play here," said Jagr after the Czech Republic's beat Latvia 5-2 Friday night.
Jagr confirmed his two-year contract worth about $7 million tax-free for Avangard Omsk of the Russian Kontinental Hockey League ends this summer, with no option years to negotiate.
For now, he's focused on getting his Czech team ready for Sunday's showdown with rival and tournament co-favorite Russia.
"And when we get back [to Russia] we have to start the playoffs," he said. "Then, I have to make a decision. If it happens, it happens."
His formerly flowing mane is now much shorter -- unlike during his Pittsburgh heyday, one can easily see his name on the back of his Czech jersey. And the stubble on his chin now looks as much like salt as pepper.
"Hey, it's not gray. I just did it to make me look older," Jagr joked.
Yet his game still looks young.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- With a big grin and a quick start to his Olympics, 38-year-old Jaromir Jagr is flirting with a return to the NHL.
The 18-year league veteran, who left for Russia's top professional division in 2008, seemed delighted Friday by the possibility of a return season in North America.
Jagr
"They treat me so well in Russia, but at the same time, maybe I want to try to play here," said Jagr after the Czech Republic's beat Latvia 5-2 Friday night.
Jagr confirmed his two-year contract worth about $7 million tax-free for Avangard Omsk of the Russian Kontinental Hockey League ends this summer, with no option years to negotiate.
For now, he's focused on getting his Czech team ready for Sunday's showdown with rival and tournament co-favorite Russia.
"And when we get back [to Russia] we have to start the playoffs," he said. "Then, I have to make a decision. If it happens, it happens."
His formerly flowing mane is now much shorter -- unlike during his Pittsburgh heyday, one can easily see his name on the back of his Czech jersey. And the stubble on his chin now looks as much like salt as pepper.
"Hey, it's not gray. I just did it to make me look older," Jagr joked.
Yet his game still looks young.