Friday, July 4, 2008

Jagr Signs In Russia - 2 Years, $7 million per season

Jaromir Jagr has left the continent! Russian media is reporting that the future Hall Of Famer has signed a $35m contract with Avangard Omsk. The signing comes a day after the New York Rangers landed Canucks winger Markus Naslund using much of the cash they were saving for Jagr. Negotiations between the two clubs had been cagey and in the past few days it became evident that Jagr would not be back with the Blue Shirts.

Jagr had played with Omsk during the lockout and some say it was during his time with the Siberian club that he regained his passion for the game.

Omsk will be a part of the new Continental League (KHL) next year, which has been searching for marquee names to poach from the NHL. Jagr was a prime target as he is a superstar that still has the ability to play with the best. Signing the former Ranger helps lend the league credibility.

So should the NHL be worried yet? No, I don't think so. The KHL is still not a viable option for most NHL stars. The NHL may not be very happy with the New York Rangers for completely mishandling Jagr's situation however.

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