Well, it was fun while it lasted. According to a new report from Sportsnet insider, Elliot Friedman, the Calgary Flames are "working on an exit" with veteran forward, Jaromir Jagr.
The two initially agreed to a one-year contract at the beginning of the regular season, but the lackluster play of the 45-year-old hockey star is forcing the Flames to look for other options down the wing. Now midway through the season, the NHL squad is hoping to free up a roster spot and some cap room in order to crawl back into a playoff position—Calgary is currently sitting 11th in the Western Conference.
Despite Jagr's much celebrated and largely successful NHL comeback, the former great has shown signs of slowing down this past calendar year. In 22 games played, the Czech icon has potted a disappointing seven points, with just one lone goal to his credit.
Yesterday on Hockey Night in Canada, Friedman revealed that Jagr's agent has been given permission to talk to other teams in the hopes of a potential trade in the near future. Apparently, the Flames haven't found a willing suitor for a swap, so Jagr now has his sights set on Europe.
Sportsnet reporter Chris Johnston also chimed in on the news this weekend, saying that a contract termination would allow Jagr to participate in the forthcoming Olympics for the Czech Republic. This would make Jaromir possibly the only NHL star in the tournament, given the ongoing dispute between the league and the International Olympic Committee.
Regardless of the outcome, the departure of Jagr will be an unfortunate end to a storied career spanning almost three decades. In related news, check out the player shouting out his ultimate fan club earlier this year.
