Published: 2 October, 2009, 15:09
Edited: 2 November, 2009, 21:45
Hockey legend Jaromor Jagr says he’s not planning to return to the NHL as he enjoys living in the Siberian city of Omsk and playing for local KHL club Avangard.
“First I want to see how this season turns out. What we would achieve, and how would I play. I want to play good hockey and be sure that I am really needed and capable of helping the team,” Jaromor Jagr told Sportbox.ru.
"You know, I went to Siberia, because I love the local people. They are great fans, each having a big heart. Our [Omsk Region] Governor Leonid Polezhayev strongly influenced my decision to stay. He will decide my fate in the club,” he added.
The Omsk hockey officials spoke about the future of the player, who scored 723 goals in the NHL and lifted the Stanley Cup twice and also won an Olympic Gold, with more confidence.
“We already talked about it. [Jagr] likes the team and the city. The negotiations will start in December. I think it will work it out. Maybe it’ll be something more than a one-year contract,” Anatoly Bardin, Adviser to the Governor of the Omsk Region on the Development of Hockey, said.
The Czech star player has a 2+1 contract with Avangard. Next summer it can be automatically renewed for another season at the request of the parties.
The 37-year-old got 62 (29 goals and 33 assists) points for Avangard in the last KHL regular season. In this year's championship account the forward’s account is eight (6+2) points in eight matches.
Another thing on the minds of hockey fans around the world is the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, but Jagr couldn’t promise that he’ll be out on the ice in Canada.
“The Czech team didn’t have a training camp because it would’ve been pointless. After all, most players have already left for the NHL. And they will form the frame work of the team in Vancouver, where the games will be held on smaller pitches. I don’t think there will be many guys from Europe and I do not know whether I'll go. If I’ll be invited and I’ll be feeling that I am in shape – I'll go. If not – better to watch the game from the stands,” he said.