KLADNO, Czech Republic (AP) — Jaromir Jagr returned to action Thursday for the first time since turning 52 and immediately scored as he surpassed legend Gordie Howe to become the oldest player taking regular shifts in professional ice hockey.
Howe, known as “Mr. Hockey,” was 52 years, 11 days old when played his final NHL game in 1980. The Canadian later played a single shift with the Detroit Vipers in the International Hockey League in 1997 at the age of 69. Howe died in 2016.
Jagr hadn’t played since Feb. 10 — five days before he turned 52 — and rejoined his Kladno Knights, a top-division team from his Czech Republic hometown, in the second game of a playoff relegation series against Vsetin.
The former NHL great in his first shift was unmarked when he collected the puck in front of goal and scored to give Kladno a 1-0 lead 1:59 into the game.
Gunman shot himself and wasn't killed by officer, chief says
Chengdu beat Zhejiang to go second in CSL
Preserving the Pages of History
A homeless man is reunited with his family after 13 years thanks to a Ford Mustang and a viral clip
Batik Craftswoman in N China's Hebei
Caring for Cranes Meticulously
Ski Resort Planner: Bringing Joy to Tourists
Ukraine starts building 2 modern units at Khmelnytskyi nuclear plant
Peng Yan Leads Team in Developing USVs
As earnings season rolls into its heart, hopes rise for broader gains
Profile: Tea Master Shares Family Secret for Common Prosperity