Jaromir Jagr’s exit from the N.H.L. was strange and largely unexplained when he left the Rangers in 2008 and signed a contract with Avangard Omsk of the Russian Kontinental Hockey League. But now it seems that was not his final exit after all.
The 39-year-old Jagr, following a strong season for Omsk, confirmed to ESPN.com that he is exploring a return and has spoken with Detroit and Montreal.
“First we’d have to see if it can happen,” Jagr told ESPN.com. “But if it happened, it would be very exciting. It also would be a nice challenge. There would be some people who think I’m not good enough.”
Jagr’s agent, former N.H.L. player Petr Svoboda said he has talked to several teams, including Detroit.
“There’s quite a few teams that have interest,” Svoboda said. “Jaromir feels he’s N.H.L.-ready again. I believe this might happen.”
Detroit General Manager Ken Holland confirmed the Wings’ interest. Detroit has the benefit of salary cap room after the retirement of defenseman Brian Rafalski and might have more if 41-year-old defenseman Niklas Lidstrom also retires. His decision is expected within a week so the Wings can make prepare for the July 1 opening of the free agent signing period.
Jagr is not currently under contract with Omsk and talk about his possible return to North American peaked during the world championships, where Jagr led the Czech Republic to the semifinals. He scored three goals in a game against the United States.
His departure from New York was one of the stranger twists in his career, which included stints with the Penguins and Capitals. Rangers General Manager Glen Sather insisted talks with Jagr never even got as far as money. Jagr seemed to be seeking some other kind of assurances he did not receive.
Jagr has played 17 seasons in the N.H.L., has scored 646 goals, 1,599 points. He is ninth on the league’s all-time points list and is 12th in goals scored.
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