Jaromir Jagr, the legendary NHL player who played for many teams throughout his career, had his jersey number, 68, retired by the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday. This was a big moment for both Jagr and the team’s history.
The ceremony was a happy and nostalgic occasion that celebrated Jagr’s impact on the Penguins and the city of Pittsburgh. Jagr is second only to Wayne Gretzky in NHL history for the most points scored in a career, with 1,921. He began his NHL career with the Penguins in 1990 and famously helped them win the Stanley Cup in 1991 and 1992, alongside Mario Lemieux.
You can watch the full Jagr jersey retirement ceremony below:
Even though Jagr left Pittsburgh in 2001 to play for other teams, his return for the jersey retirement ceremony showed how much he meant to the Penguins.
The weekend included various events, such as a fireside chat with former teammates and a practice session with the current Penguins team. The highlight was the on-ice ceremony at PPG Paints Arena, where Jagr’s No. 68 was raised alongside the numbers of Lemieux and Michel Brière.
In his speech, Jagr expressed gratitude for his time in Pittsburgh, calling it the best years of his life. He thanked his teammates and coaches, especially Lemieux, for their influence on his career and personal growth. The ceremony also included a touching tribute, with current Penguins players wearing No. 68 jerseys and mullet wigs during warm-up.
Thanks for joining us for warmups, @68Jagr 🫡 pic.twitter.com/EsfcYs9Bwt
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 18, 2024
Despite initial concerns about his reception due to past departures and returns, Jagr received a standing ovation and widespread affection from fans and the franchise. This demonstrated the healing of past rifts and enduring respect for Jagr’s contributions to the Penguins and hockey.
Jagr’s jersey retirement celebrated not only his achievements but also his complex relationship with Pittsburgh and its fans. It was a moment of reconciliation and recognition of Jagr’s impact on the Penguins’ history and the sport. As Jagr noted, the pursuit of greatness never fades, resonating with his enduring legacy in the NHL.
The retirement of Jagr’s jersey by the Penguins was a fitting tribute to one of hockey’s greatest players. It was a weekend filled with memories, laughter, and acknowledgment of Jagr’s impact on the team and Pittsburgh.
As Jagr’s No. 68 ascended to the rafters, it symbolized his remarkable career and lasting connection with the place he called home in the NHL.
