Holik isn't surprised Jagr still excels in NHL

Bobby Holik is generally a solid quote because he isn't afraid to speak his mind and when sharing his thoughts on fellow Czech Jaromir Jagr, the now 43-year-old Holik says he isn't surprised Jagr, 42, is still excelling in the NHL.

“It’s greatness,” Holik said, via Fire & Ice. “Greatness lasts for a long time and he always kept himself in great shape.”

Holik makes a valid point that when the NHL got rid of so much of the hooking and holding that plagued the game, the point was to make it easier for the stars. That change, combined with Jagr's size and the way he plays... watch out.

“Not to minimize his impact or his performance, but it allows him to play because he’s very effective with the type of player he is,” Holik said. “He’s big, strong. How are you going to stop him? How are you going to take the puck away from him? You can’t touch him.

“I emphasize it doesn’t minimize his impact or his greatness, but you also have to look at the game. It might be faster, it might be this or that, but once he controls the puck and has puck possession, there’s not much you can do.”

Also: “But they let you go further then than now,” Holik said. “So, he’s older, but the game allows him to still be effective. And it doesn’t apply to anybody else but a great player. There’s a reason why average players don’t play at his age.”

Source: Tom Gulitti, NorthJersey.com