Panthers GM on Jagr: 'I’d love to see him play another year or two here'

The Florida Panthers are enjoying a resurgent season featuring a lineup mixed with exciting youngsters such as Aaron Ekblad and Nick Bjugstad, who are steadied by veterans like Jussi Jokinen and Brad Boyes.

On Thursday, they added another veteran to the mix, acquiring 43-year-old Jaromir Jagr from the New Jersey Devils.

Jagr reportedly was looking to join a contender, and the Panthers are just two points behind the Boston Bruins for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, so the shoe fits.

Florida general manager Dale Tallon said the Jagr move was not only a win-now move, but one he hopes works out for a longer term, reports George Richards from the Miami Herald.

"I’d love to see him play another year or two here," Tallon said. "That’s what his goal is. His fitness level is second to none."

"Hopefully, Jaromir can lead these young guys to the promised land. It’s a win-win for us," Tallon said, as reported by Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel. 

Jagr recorded 29 points in 57 games for the Devils after an incredibly productive 2013-14 season, with 67 points in 82 games.