Jagr would work well with Crosby

If you can, for just a minute, forget the past 7 years of anger and flat out hatred you have had for Jaromir Jagr and anything directly related to him (personally, I have chosen to root for anyone to beat the Czech Republic and Rangers/Caps, just to watch him cry. I also watch that youtube clip of Ruutu crushing him into the boards during the 2002 Olympics just to make me smile when I'm feeling the slightest bit down. It brings me great comfort). It is time, even if for a moment, to talk realistically about the Penguins options for the 2008-2009 season.

The PensBlog, who have inspired me and brought my obsession/love for penguins hockey to an all time high, have started what they call the Jaromir Jagr Movement. I must say, I am completely on board. In fact, I am riding shotgun chugging a bottle of Jack Daniels with a "Flash Me" sign and screaming out the window at the top of my lungs in support of this.

First of all, the penguins are in desperate need of wingers, veterans and a proven sniper to compliment Crosby's vision and passing touch. Aside from Hossa (who I would not like to re-sign at 7mil/yr), Crosby has not had a proven scoring winger on his line. Think about it. Recchi was the closest thing and he was well into his 30's! God bless his effort and heart, but Colby Armstrong didn't bring much to the table, nor did Christensen and Malone didn't click until he played with Malkin. We need someone who can adapt to Crosby's game and has a similar touch and vision.

Secondly, like Crosby and Malkin, Jagr is extremely hard to knock off the puck. Now You have 2 lines with 3 players who have the ability to keep the puck in the offensive zone, thus creating more chances.

Jagr had some great years/plays/memories in a Penguins sweater and he is a year, maybe 2 away from hanging it up. He should not come back for the poetic ending or to patch up old wounds...we all know it would take 1 announcement of his name over the PA at Mellon Arena to get the fans back in love with him. He should come back for a shot at the cup; to win; to teach these young kids what this game is about and how hard you have to work to be remembered as one of the best of all time.

The bottom line is that if I saw on ESPN that the penguins had signed him, id open up the bubbly and get a little saucy while watching youtube clips of his days with Lemieux while sporting the black and gold. Go Pens.