In his first
blog for iSport since the end of the playoffs, Jaromir Jagr candidly discussed a host of issues. Some highlights:
* Jagr said that he's still bothered by the Flyers' performance against the Devils in the second round of the playoffs, saying that Philly didn't play anywhere near its capabilities and misplaced its skating legs and hunger for the puck. He noted the difference in the puck support levels between the two teams and said, "We were like a palm, they are were like a fist."
* After refusing to comment on his health on the Flyers locker clean-out day, Jagr admitted that he was battling a thigh injury throughout the New Jersey series. The injury happened late in the Pittsburgh series. The player said that the injury did not cause him pain during the New Jersey series but it prevented him from skating hard in training.
* Jagr said that he's in no hurry to decide about where he'll play next year, and put the ball in the Flyers' court to determine what direction they want to go in terms of keeping him in the same role on the top line or looking elsewhere. He reiterated that he will not return to the club in a reduced role.
"It is not about playing twenty minutes in every game." he wrote. "I am quite happy with the fifteen minutes I am allocated, but there should be a regular rhythm. .... Our line is second to go on the ice during a power play, and if you throw in a commercial break, or perhaps a time-out, you find yourself sitting for eight or ten minutes. Which is what I hate."
The Flyers have a real tough decision to make on Jagr. From Paul Holmgren's comments on media day, it sounds like the club is prepared to let Jagr test the market on July 1. I have little doubt that the club can replace Jagr's regular season points. Replacing his locker room leadership, big-game experience and the respect level he enjoys from the entire team is much harder to do.
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I made no bones about the fact that I rooted for the New Jersey Devils over the New York Rangers in the Eastern Conference Final. That was primarily because I didn't want to see John Tortorella win anything. Now that the Rangers are done, I don't really have any rooting interest in the Stanley Cup Final.
With the exception of Simon Gagne -- who may or may not be cleared to play after a long concussion-related absence -- I'm pretty much indifferent to the on-ice personnel for the Kings who had past ties to the Flyers. I really hope Gagne is able to play.
It's been a long time since Justin Williams played in Philly. He always seemed like a real good guy and I like the way he plays the game. He's also dealt with a slew of injuries during his career. So I'd be happy for him if LA wins, but he's so far removed from his Flyers days that the connection feels strained beyond the fact there are so many other former Flyers employees associated with his club.
I'm still fine with the trades that sent away former captain Mike Richards and Jeff Carter last summer, and would not reverse them even if LA does win the Cup. Besides, if the Kings defeat the Devils, it will be their defense and goaltending that get them there.
Carter has been a non-factor in all but one playoff game this year (although he scored a hat trick in that one game). Richards has played well but has been more of a valuable supporting cast member than the one driving the bus for his club.
I wish no ill on either Richards or Carter but, by the same token, I'm not going to proclaim how happy I am that they're on a team playing for the Cup.
On the flip side, I will be legitimately happy for John Stevens and Ron Hextall if they get their names on the Stanley Cup.
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Happy Memorial Day to one and all. While you are enjoying your cookouts, day at the beach or simply some down time with family and friends, please take a moment to remember and thank the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
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Here's a chance to support local hockey in the Delaware Valley. On June 9, Delco Demons Roller Hockey will be holding its 1st annual golf outing at Rock Manor Golf Club in Wilmington. The fund-raising event costs $150 for those playing golf and $50 for those who will not be golfing.
The $150 package includes the following:
- Bag service and free driving range access during the registration period
- Lunch during the registration period, provided by Slack's Hoagie Shack
- Greens fees and golf carts enabled with GPS and digital scoring
- Tournament play, including a professional scoring service
- Tournament contest entry, including prizes for the top three teams, Longest Drive, Closest to Pin, and Longest Putt
- Additional contests and games including Consecutive Putt for Dough and much more
- Home-style BBQ Buffet Dinner during the awards ceremony immediately following the golf tournament, provided by Rock Manor Golf Club
- Unlimited drinks, including domestic canned beer, soda, Gatorade, and bottled water during registration hour and throughout tournament play.
The $50 non-golfer package includes all-day access to the driving range and putting green, lunch, dinner, and unlimited beverages.
The registration period begins at 12 noon, during which lunch will be served. This will be immediately followed by a shotgun style tee-off at 1:30 pm. Golf attire is required! Collared shirts and slacks are a must. No steel spikes are allowed on the course. All participants must be at least 13 years of age.
To pre-register, please call Bill Sherwood at (610) 955-4311, or click
here.
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