Jaromir Jágr may hang up his skates after 38-year career

Jaromir Jágr, the 54-year-old Czech star who sits second on the NHL points list, is expected to end his 38-season professional hockey career. Since leaving the NHL in 2018, he has played for his hometown Kladno Knights in Czechia, a team he once owned and now holds a 20% stake in. In a recent interview he said he will not be seen by fans again unless a miracle makes him 15 years younger, indicating he will likely miss the upcoming training camp.

Jágr’s motivation has been described as a blend of personal responsibility to the club and honoring his father, Jaromir Jágr Sr., who ran the team for 20 years before passing away in 2022. His achievements span two Stanley Cups, an Olympic gold medal, five Art Ross Trophies, three Ted Lindsay Awards, and inductions into both the IIHF and Czech Hockey Halls of Fame. The only accolade still pending is entry into the Hockey Hall of Fame, which should follow once he officially retires. Analysts note his departure would mark the end of an era for both Czech and international hockey.