Jaromir Jagr isn’t ready to hang up his skates just yet.
The 44-year-old winger has signed a one-year contract to remain with the Florida Panthers, the team announced Thursday. It’ll be the 23rd NHL season for Jagr, who first broke into the league way back in 1990.
“Jaromir has had a tremendous influence on our younger players and has been a key offensive contributor on our team,” Panthers head coach Gerard Gallant said in a statement. “We are happy to have him back as we look to build off this year’s playoff appearance.”
The oldest active player in the NHL, Jagr was far more than simply a veteran mentor this season for Florida. He led the Panthers with 66 points, tied for second on the team in assists with 39 and ranked second in goals behind linemate Aleksander Barkov, who enjoyed a breakout season as a third-year pro.
Jagr, who turns 45 next February, made his NHL debut Oct. 5, 1990. Barkov was born Sept. 2, 1995.
“Jaromir is a Hall of Fame player and had an excellent season playing alongside Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau,” Panther general manager Dale Tallon said in a statement. “His track record speaks for itself, ranking third all-time in points and goals. He has been a great fit with our organization and we are excited to have him back for next season.”
Jagr ranks third all-time in both goals (749) and points (1,868) and sixth in assists (1,119).
The Panthers tallied a franchise-record 103 points during the regular season and finished atop the Atlantic Division standings, but they failed to advance out of the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, falling to the New York Islanders in six games.
Thumbnail photo via Bruce Fedyck/USA TODAY Sports Images
