By the Numbers: The Enduring Legend of #68
In the world of hockey, certain numbers just belong to one person. For Jaromir Jagr, that’s number “68”. While most stars are lucky to dominate a single decade, Jagr’s career is a massive story that connects the high-scoring 1990s to today’s fast-paced game. For Pittsburgh fans and hockey lifers, seeing number "68" on the ice means one thing: a rare blend of elite skill and a work ethic that seems almost impossible for a human being to maintain.
Cool Fact: Jaromir Jagr is a member of the Triple Gold Club: Stanley Cup Championships (1991, 1992); Ice Hockey World Championships (2005, 2010); and Olympic Gold (1998)
The Burst onto the Scene
Jagr landed in the NHL in 1990 as a teenage sensation. Even though he was drafted fifth overall into a powerhouse Pittsburgh lineup and barely spoke English, his talent was undeniable. Playing alongside his mentor, Mario Lemieux, Jagr didn’t just learn the game—he became an instant superstar.
Cool Fact: In a perfect coincidence, fans realized the letters in “Jaromir” can be rearranged to spell "Mario Jr."—the ultimate tribute to Lemieux.
The impact was felt immediately. In his first two years, Jagr helped the Penguins win back-to-back Stanley Cups (1991; 1992). He stood his ground next to Hall of Fame icons like Paul Coffey and Ron Francis, making a name for himself with his signature mullet and a skill set that was impossible to defend.
The Record: Jagr is the only player in history to play in a Stanley Cup Final as both a teenager (1991) and in his 40s (2013 with Boston).
Chasing "The Great One"
As his career went on, Jagr’s stats became legendary. He won five Art Ross Trophies and the 1999 Hart Trophy as league MVP. When he finally left the NHL, he had racked up 1,921 points, moving him into second place on the all-time list behind only Wayne Gretzky (2,857 points).
68: A Career Without an End
What makes the legend of number “68” so unique is that he simply refuses to stop. After playing for nine different NHL franchises, Jagr went home to play for the Kladno Knights. Even in his 50s, he is still taking shifts. With a career spanning 35+ seasons, he’s more than just a player—he’s a living monument to the sport.