Jaromir Jagr’s assault on the NHL record books will continue.
Jagr, who moved into third all-time in points this season, has signed a one-year extension with the Florida Panthers, the club announced on Thursday.
Per Sportsnet, it’s a $4 million base salary next year, with $1.5M in potential bonuses.
“Jaromir has had a tremendous influence on our younger players and has been a key offensive contributor on our team,” Panthers head coach Gerard Gallant said in a release. “We are happy to have him back as we look to build off this year’s playoff appearance.”
It’s little surprise Jagr came back for another year. At 44, he led the Panthers in scoring, with 66 points in 79 games, and was named a captain at this year’s All-Star Game in Nashville.
Though his playoff performance left something to be desired -- no goals and just two points in a six-game loss to the Isles -- Jagr’s overall impact on the club goes well beyond the stat sheet.
He’s been credited with mentoring two of the club’s brightest young talents at forward, linemates Jonathan Huberdeau and Aleksander Barkov. Jagr, the NHL’s oldest active player, has also been praised for his work ethic and remarkable physical conditioning, which will (presumably) allow him to play at age 45 next season.
Speaking of next season, there will be huge focus on Jagr’s chase of Mark Messier for second all-time in NHL scoring. Jagr needs just 20 points to pass Messier, and trail only Wayne Gretzky as the most prolific point-getter in league history.