At 39 years old, Jarome Iginla is thankful for what could be one last shot at winning a Stanley Cup.
Iginla was traded by the Colorado Avalanche today. With 619 career goals but no championship ring, he’s excited to join the Los Angeles Kings -- even though his new team is currently just outside the playoff picture.
“The Kings are such a hard team to play against,” Iginla told TSN. “They get into the playoffs and they’re such a determined, competitive group that they excel. ... I really appreciate the opportunity to be in meaningful, competitive games.”
It remains to be seen where Iginla will play in the Kings’ lineup. It’s possible it could be with Anze Kopitar, who could certainly use a scorer on his wing.
That being said, Iginla’s production this season -- just eight goals in 61 games -- leaves doubts about his ability to become the top-six winger the Kings so desperately need.
“I believe I can still produce,” said Iginla. “I hope to go there and help out, but also be a pleasant surprise. I know there’s questions and stuff about whether I can or not. I believe I can.”
A pending unrestricted free agent, Iginla couldn’t say whether retirement was looming. At the moment, he said it’s “probably 50-50" that this would be his last year. Among NHL forwards, only Jaromir Jagr, Shane Doan and Matt Cullen are older.
“It’s honestly just get ready for now and this playoff push,” said Iginla. “Hopefully a long playoff run and a championship. That’s where the focus is. I honestly don’t know what the future holds after that.”