I generally don't get into specific rumors about players still in the NHL playoffs, but as I finalize the rumor chart today I couldn't help but mention Jagr, and I feel relatively comfortable in saying that even sources in Boston, even on the record, are quick to point out that Jagr, while he does bring some definite swagger to the B's, also isn't a real strong fit on the ice and is absolutely a rental player.

Jagr plays the game at a different speed and really does need to be in your top 6 and on the power play to really make an impact on the ice and Boston's top 6 has been set for some time now. In Dallas, Jagr showed he can still put up points. What he has lost in speed he more than makes up for in intelligence on the ice and his hockey sense is second to none.

Off the ice though is where #68 really shines. Jags is a work-a-holic and players see him as almost a mythical hockey figure. A true legend they get to be around and play with. You could argue that Jagr's actions and work ethic might have as much or not more impact on young players than any coach you could hire. Looking at what Jagr brought to Philly for Giroux and Dallas for Benn you can only imagine what he could bring to a group of young players in a city like Nashville, Long Island, Edmonton, Buffalo, Ottawa or Montreal.

I was around the team when Jagr transformed Giroux from a player with moments of greatness to a player who truly believed he should be the best player on the ice every shift of ever period in every game.

Come playoff time of course things change. Jagr isn't really teaching anymore and his lack of speed comes into play and becomes amplified. All that said, I can't help but continue to feel we haven't yet seen the moment that will define Jagr with Boston in the 2013 playoffs. I just have this strong feeling Jagr is going to score a very big goal at a very big time for Boston...and who knows if that moment makes him want to stick around beantown....


More to come...

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