Jagr's decision to head to Russia was not easy

From Pierre Lebrun of the Canadian Press:

"It wasn't an easy decision," the star winger told The Canadian Press in a
phone interview Friday. "It was the toughest decision in my life, hockey-wise.
...

"It was a lot tougher than I thought it was going to be," he added. "No
question about it. I hate making changes."

Read the entire article here.

Jagr admits in this piece that he was asking for a three-year deal. With the new CBA holding teams accountable for +35 age signings, Jagr was not going to get that kind of term in the NHL. Nonetheless, his talents will certainly be missed by all hockey fans, as he was arguably one of the most exciting players to watch over the past twenty years.

Pat Brisson confirms Jagr deal

From John Dellapina of the NY Daily News:

Agent Pat Brisson just confirmed that Jagr signed a letter of intent with Avangard-Omsk of the Russian Continental League early this morning.

“Jaromir signed a letter of intent with the Avangard Omsk Hockey team of the Russian CHL on or about 3 a.m. EST this morning,” Brisson wrote in an e-mail message. “I won’t comment on the terms of the agreement at this time.

“It was a very difficult but personal decision to make in light of the many NHL teams interested in his services. He is grateful to the NHL and especially the Rangers in recent years.”

Read more from the Blueshirts Blog here.

Well, this confirms all the reports. I have to say that I am surprised Jagr has headed back overseas. Obviously the money was overwhelming, but playing in Russia is quite a drop in competition; especially considering Jagr's ability. He had a terrific career in the NHL and is a shoe-in Hall of Famer.

Report: Jagr signs with Omsk

From TSN:

Russian club Avangard Omsk says it has signed Jaromir Jagr, a day after the New York Rangers parted ways with the star winger.

Avangard announced the signing on its website today but did not disclose the terms of the contract.

Read the entire report here.

I'm not sure how much truth there is to this report. Until there is actual confirmation of this contract, I will reserve judgment.

Is Jagr deciding between Edmonton and Russia?

From Larry Brooks of the NY Post:

The future is uncertain for Jagr, who said that he would like to play five more years. He has an offer from Russia. He may have a multi-year offer coming to him from Edmonton.

"People think that it's better to have a lot of choices, but sometimes having one choice is best because you can't make the wrong one," Jagr said. "I don't know what I'm going to do now, but I'll make that choice when it's time.

Read the entire article here.

Brooks pays Jagr the respect he deserves in this article. The Czech winger was integral in turning the Rangers around from a pretender to a contender.

As for his future, if Jagr were to guarantee he'd play more than one season in the NHL, then I'd have no problem offering him a two-year deal if I were the Oilers.