That coveted spot has been a revolving door for the Flames ever since veteran forward Jiri Hudler broke out for 76 points (31 goals, 45 assists) in 78 games playing mostly with Gaudreau and Monahan in 2014-15. Forwards Micheal Ferland (25 points in 76 games last season) and Alex Chiasson (24 points in 81 games) split time on the line with Gaudreau and Monahan last season, but neither was much of a fantasy contributor.
At this stage of Jagr's storied career, it's clear he would be most effective if used in a first-line role with some power-play time and limited defensive responsibility. Calgary's second line of Mikael Backlund at center with wings Matthew Tkachuk and Michael Frolik is likely to remain intact given its success last season (combined 145 points). That said, Jagr could feasibly remain fantasy-relevant if he plays on the third line with center Sam Bennett and left wing Kris Versteeg, and on the first power-play unit with Gaudreau and Monahan. Time will tell where Jagr will fit into coach Glen Gulutzan's system.
But we know this for sure: Jagr brings size, scoring pedigree and added depth to the Flames, who should remain a Stanley Cup Playoff team in the Pacific Division (likely weakest of the four) after trading for goaltender Mike Smith and defenseman Travis Hamonic this offseason. Jagr's efficiency from a possession standpoint also cannot be questioned; he ranked eighth in the NHL last season in shot attempts relative percentage (6.4) among those who played at least 80 games.
Late-round fantasy picks are traditionally reserved for younger, higher-upside selections, but fantasy owners who haven't drafted yet should make the exception here. Jagr, with proper usage in Calgary, could easily return value if taken in the final rounds of a standard, 12- or 14-team format.
