Jaromir Jagr Kicks Off 37th Season with Kladno Knights

Jaromir Jagr has commenced his 37th professional ice hockey season with the Kladno Knights, his hometown team in the Czech Republic’s top league. The 52-year-old, widely expected to retire at the end of this season, showcased his enduring skill during the match’s opener against Pardubice. Although his team suffered a 5-1 defeat, Jagr’s assist on a power-play goal marked the Knights’ only scoring moment in the game.

This opening game is noteworthy as it marks Jagr’s return to season openers after a hiatus since 2018, following his release from the NHL, where he is celebrated as the second-highest points scorer in history. His return to Kladno six years ago allowed him to reconnect with the team where his illustrious career began in his teenage years, a team he now also owns.

Jagr bravely joined the Pardubice match despite not being fully fit. A muscle injury had interrupted his preseason training, causing a four-week break that hindered his physical preparation. Despite these challenges, Jagr indicated to local media that he remains optimistic about regaining his top form, expressing that with more game time, he will improve. “That’s fine. [It was] the first game,” Jagr stated, signaling his determination to contribute more meaningfully as the season progresses.