Penguins/NHL
Decision expected this afternoon
Jaromir Jagr is enroute to the United States. His agent Petr Svoboda indicates a decision from the 39 year old is expected upon his arrival.
“He is traveling to the States as we speak, ” Svoboda said. “Should be in New York by 3:30 p.m. and decision {should} come soon after.”
The Penguins have confirmed that they made a 1 year offer Tuesday night but there has been some speculation that the Detroit Red Wings might be out of the mix. That doesn’t appear to be the case.
“Detroit has made offer, Svoboda told Inside Pittsburgh Sports. The offer was made on Tuesday. “We have more than two offers, ” Svoboda reinterated. “Jaromir is looking to make the best decision for himself, ” Svoboda said.
Svoboda did speak with Red Wings GM Ken Holland this morning. He doesn’t expect to speak with the Penguins until a decision from Jagr is made.
When asked, Svoboda would not comment on the Montreal Canadiens who are considered the “wildcard” in this situation.
Those in Jagr’s camp have not been shy about discussing Detroit and Pittsburgh, but will not comment on Montreal during the process, who publicly hasn’t denied they have interest.
The Canadiens have around $15 million in cap space and during the World Championships were said to be Jagr’s first choice.
There has been chatter that Montreal could come in with an offer over $4 million per season.
However, those in league circles believe it will be a shock if Jagr does not agree to become a Penguin. “I just don’t see a scenario where he’s not a Penguin, ” a league source said, who previously represented Jagr.
Meanwhile, talk this weekend at the draft, is the Red Wings feel Jagr’s first choice is to resume his career in Pittsburgh.
That’s where the momentum is heading but with Jagr there’s not a more unpredictable guy. It’s going to be a fun afternoon.
Notes: Jagr also has an offer on the table from Omsk of the KHL.
