Jaromir Jagr had an eventful weekend in Pittsburgh for his jersey retirement ceremony. The Czech forward skated with his former team, witnessed Sidney Crosby’s mullet, and watched as his number 68 was raised to the rafters of PPG Paints Arena. He also participated in warmups before the Penguins’ game against the Los Angeles Kings.
During the game, Jagr joined the broadcast booth in the second period and began discussing retired Pens play-by-play announcer Mike Lange. However, he unintentionally swore when Kings forward Phillip Danault took a shot on goal during a power play, causing Tristan Jarry to make a big save.
Jagr quickly apologized for his slip-up, and the announcers laughed it off, joking that “the player came out” in him. Despite the humorous incident, Jagr continued his conversation about his friendship with Lange, recalling how they became close during Jagr’s rookie year with the Penguins.
Their friendship grew as Jagr helped Lange with his English, and they even collaborated on quirky phrases for Lange to use in his broadcasts. One such phrase, “smoked him like a bad cigar,” became a favorite of Lange’s and remains a cherished memory for both men.
Even after 24 NHL seasons, Jagr’s passion for hockey remains strong, as evidenced by his spontaneous reaction during the game.
