In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Jaromir Jagr has expressed deep admiration for Connor McDavid, highlighting the Oilers star’s unique excellence ahead of the Florida Panthers’ crucial Game 6 appearance. Jagr, a former Panthers player and current Kladno Knight, met with McDavid after Game 4 at Amerant Bank Arena and shared his view on what sets McDavid apart in today’s NHL.
Jagr described watching McDavid play as witnessing a rare brand of skill that transcends the norm, comparing him to some of hockey’s all-time greats. He explained that McDavid’s abilities give him a seemingly supernatural quality, something that can only be likened to a divine gift.
Jagr Compares McDavid’s Greatness to Legendary Figures
When asked about his relationship with McDavid, Jagr emphasized his respect for the young star’s game and how McDavid’s talent can make accomplished players appear less skilled in contrast.
“I respect the game he plays. It’s fun to watch. The way he plays, he sometimes makes very good players look silly. And it’s special,”
Jagr said.
He further elaborated on the concept of greatness by linking it to his personal beliefs. Pointing to the cross on his shirt, Jagr remarked,
“I believe in God. So, I can see the God in him. It’s something that’s great. I always appreciate it. Because it’s got to be something more than the rest of us.”
Jagr outlined the notion of an extra spark or higher energy that players like McDavid possess, an intangible quality that allows them to dominate their sport. Drawing parallels to basketball’s Michael Jordan and hockey’s Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux, Jagr stressed that exceptional athletes must be fundamentally different to reach such heights.
Jagr Reflects on His Own Strength and Work Ethic
Jagr also shared insight into what made him stand out during his prime. Growing up on a farm, he developed strength through discipline, recalling his father’s regimen of making him do 1,000 squats daily for a decade before he entered the NHL.
“I always thought: I’m the strongest on the ice, no matter who plays against me. I always thought that,”
Jagr said.
This physical foundation shaped his playing style, proving critical against the top talent of his era and maintaining his position as a formidable competitor.
Assessing the Strengths of the Florida Panthers and Their Opponents
Turning his attention to the current playoffs, Jagr praised the Panthers as a well-rounded team with multiple scoring lines demonstrating their talent in recent games. He pointed out the team’s depth and offensive balance as key factors, saying,
“Three lines can score. And that fourth one, they’re doing a great job. I feel like they have bigger depth.”
However, Jagr also recognized the challenge posed by the Oilers’ formidable top duo, labeling them
“the best duo in the league.”
He acknowledged the complexity managers face in assembling a successful team, debating whether to focus on a balanced roster or build around superstar players.
Veteran Players Continue to Make an Impact
Jagr addressed the ongoing success of seasoned veterans like Corey Perry and Brad Marchand, highlighting their ability to adapt in a faster, less physical NHL compared to the era they began in. He noted,
“The league was a lot tougher before, harder because it was a more physical game. Now, it’s more speedy.”
Because of the increased emphasis on speed and less on physicality, Jagr observed that strong skaters benefit, finding it less exhausting to maintain their pace. He added that players like Marchand and Perry, who were built for a rougher style of play, can leverage that toughness if they keep up with today’s game speed.
Jagr’s Perspective on the Playoffs and His Future Plans
Despite his ties to the Panthers, Jagr refrained from rooting solely for his former team, expressing broader support for NHL players overall. When asked whether he plans to play next season, he said hopefully he will continue his career.
“Gotten a chance to meet him a couple of times now,” McDavid said. “Obviously, a legend of the game. One of the greatest to ever do it. Cool to spend some time with him.” —Connor McDavid
“I respect the game he plays. It’s fun to watch. The way he plays, he sometimes makes very good players look silly. And it’s special. I always admire people who are greater than the rest of ’em. I believe in God. So, I can see the God in him. It’s something that’s great. I always appreciate it. Because it’s got to be something more than the rest of us.” —Jaromir Jagr
“The league was lot tougher before, harder because it was a more physical game. Now, it’s more speedy. But if you’re a good skater, you don’t get tired skating up and down. It’s tougher in playoffs. That’s why I feel like it was a tougher game (when Marchand and Perry entered the NHL), because there was a lot of one-on-one battles. The rules and everything changed. It’s more speed. Nobody can hook you; nobody can hold you. But if you’re a good skater, it’s easier. It’s quicker, but it’s easier. You don’t get tired as much. Those guys, they were built for the tougher game a long time ago. As long as they can keep up the speed, they should have an advantage.” —Jaromir Jagr
The Ongoing Appeal of Hockey’s Greatest Players
Jagr’s reflections on Connor McDavid underscore the lasting allure of transcendental skill in sports, showing that even within the modern NHL’s evolving landscape, exceptional talent continues to draw reverence from past legends. As the Panthers and Oilers prepare for their critical Game 6, Jagr’s insights deepen appreciation for the players who shape hockey’s ongoing narrative.