Aleksander Barkov changed Jaromir Jagr's career – "Gave me three extra years in the NHL"

Jaromir Jagr recognized Aleksander Barkov’s potential early in his NHL career. The Czech legend later recalled that the Finnish player’s future success was easy to predict based on one particular trait.

Jagr and Barkov were teammates on the Florida Panthers from 2014 to 2017. Their journey together began mid-season in 2014-15 when Jagr was traded to the Panthers from the New Jersey Devils in a deal involving two draft picks.

The trade proved significant for the experienced forward.

– I was lucky to be traded from New Jersey to Florida. I thought it might be my last season when I was traded. I played the last 20 games of that season with Barkov and Huberdeau. It worked right away. They gave me three extra years in the NHL! Jagr said to SuomiKiekko at the World Championships in the spring of 2024.

After his trade, Jagr played 20 regular-season games in Florida, scoring 6+12=18 points. Before the trade, he had logged 57 games in New Jersey with 11+18=29 points.

His chemistry with Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau brought new efficiency to the veteran forward’s game, and he ultimately spent two seasons with Barkov before Jagr moved to the Calgary Flames.

Jagr saw something special in Barkov right away

Barkov’s development into one of the best hockey players in the world did not come as a surprise to Jagr. He says he saw immediately that the Finnish player’s strength was not based solely on talent.

– When I saw Barkov, I knew right away that he would become really good. He was already good, but in addition, he was willing to work really hard. Talent doesn’t make anyone special, but he was really tough on working hard, Jagr said.

Jagr also highlighted Barkov’s personality.

– I am happy for him because he works hard and he’s a good guy too!

Article published for the first time on May 26, 2024.