Will He Stay or Will He Go?

First up on the off season game plan is NYR's Captain, Jaromir Jagr.

Since Jagr failed to hit the qualifiers that would trigger his option for the 08-09 season, he will become a free agent on July 1st. It should be noted that this will be the first time Jagr will choose where he wants to play- he was drafted by the Penguins, then traded to the Capitals and then signed a contract extension there that was later picked up by the Rangers when he was traded to NY. And this year Jagr has plenty of options to consider when making his decision.

He has stated that the Rangers would be his number one option since he "doesn't like change" Glen Sather has openly said he wants to bring Jagr back for next season, but the problem is if Jagr would accept a lower contract or one comprised of bonuses. (Jagr's previous contract of over $8 million was half payed by the Washington Capitals.)

The other option includes returning to Omsk of the Russian Super League where he played during the lockout and also won a Championship. Jagr has expressed his desire to one day return to Russia, and he did admit to having a dinner with team managers from Omsk during the past season.

And finally, Jagr has also stated that in two years time he would like to return to his native Czech Republic to play for his father's team. Jagr's father is opening a new arena in that time and has asked Jaromir to play for him during the opening season. This would mean that Jagr would not want to sign any contract longer for two years, but in his exit interview he did mention that his father could wait another year or so depending on what happens.

Where Jagr will go next year, anyone knows... Jagr himself probably doesn't know right now.

What are your thoughts on the 08-09 season of Jaromir Jagr?