Jagr not retiring after 33rd pro season: 'I still have it in me'

Jaromir Jagr appears set on playing professional hockey into his 50s.

The 49-year-old Jagr recently completed his 33rd pro season with the Kladno Knights - a Czech team he also owns - and said he's not ready to retire.

"I believe I still have it in me," Jagr told NHL.com's Michael Langr. "It is all just about working hard and putting more effort. I have to practice harder and avoid gaining weight."

Jagr had 12 points in 19 regular-season games this season. He added 10 in 16 playoff contests as Kladno won the championship and earned a promotion to Czech Republic's top league.

He said ownership duties are the key reason he keeps playing as he battles what he views as a diminished skill set.

"The main reason I am still playing is my responsibility to the club," Jagr said. "If I did not have any, I would not be flying around on the ice here. Because I am embarrassing myself there, I can say."

He continued: "I expect much more from myself and I don't have it. But I am aware that when I leave, many (business) partners will leave the team, too. That's why I have no choice."

Jagr hasn't played in the NHL since a brief stint with the Calgary Flames in 2017-18. Whenever Jagr calls it quits, he's a lock for first-ballot Hall of Fame enshrinement. On top of his success in Europe, he ranks second in NHL history in points (1,921), third in goals (766), and fourth in games played (1,733). He's also won two Stanley Cups, an MVP, five scoring titles, and an Olympic gold medal.

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