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Jaromir Jagr

Jaromir Jagr is a Czech professional ice hockey right winger widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NHL history.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jaromir Jagr is a Czech professional ice hockey right winger widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NHL history. Born in Kladno in 1972, he won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins and became one of the league’s all-time leading scorers.

Early life and junior career

Jagr was born in Kladno, then part of Czechoslovakia, and developed as a player in the Czech hockey system. He emerged as a top prospect before entering the NHL in 1990.

NHL career

Selected by Pittsburgh fifth overall in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, Jagr became a star with the Penguins and later played for several other NHL teams. His career totals place him among the highest-scoring players in league history.

International play

Jagr represented the Czech Republic internationally and was part of the team that won gold at the 1998 Winter Olympics. He was also a major figure in Czech hockey for many years.

Awards and records

Jagr’s achievements include two Stanley Cups, five scoring titles, and major individual honours such as the Hart Trophy. He is noted for records related to longevity, scoring, and games played.

Key facts

  • Jagr began his NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins after being drafted fifth overall in 1990.
  • He won back-to-back Stanley Cups with Pittsburgh in 1991 and 1992.
  • He won the Art Ross Trophy five times and the Hart Trophy in 1999.
  • He has been recognized as one of the NHL’s most prolific point scorers.
  • He also played for the Czech national team and won Olympic gold in 1998.
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Canadian context

Jagr is relevant to Canadian readers because he played extensively in the NHL, a league followed closely in Canada, and his career overlapped with many Canadian teams and players.

Frequently asked questions

What position did Jaromir Jagr play?
He played primarily as a right wing.
Which NHL team drafted Jaromir Jagr?
The Pittsburgh Penguins drafted him fifth overall in 1990.
How many Stanley Cups did Jagr win?
He won two Stanley Cups, both with Pittsburgh.
What is Jaromir Jagr known for?
He is known for his long career, high scoring totals, and status as one of the greatest NHL players.
Did Jagr play for the Czech national team?
Yes. He represented the Czech Republic internationally and won Olympic gold in 1998.
Where is Jaromir Jagr from?
He was born in Kladno, in what was then Czechoslovakia.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jaromir-Jagr
    Supports: Birth date and place, Czech nationality, NHL career prominence, Stanley Cup wins.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nhl/player/bio/_/id/405/jaromir-jagr
    Supports: Position, draft details, NHL teams, awards, and career history.
  3. VisitCzechia — https://www.visitczechia.com/en-us/personalities/sport/jaromir-jagr-hockey-player
    Supports: Career milestones, two Stanley Cups, 1998 Olympic gold, scoring titles, and Czech significance.
  4. Elite Prospects — https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/8627/jaromir-jagr
    Supports: Birth details, position, handedness, height, weight, draft position, and youth team.