Jaromir Jagr wants to extend his tenure on Broadway and has told reproters that the Rangers are his number one choice. Whether he (and Brendan Shanahan) return will be largely up to what Glen Sather wants to do financially and strategically.

It’s expected that while Jagr has indicated he’d like to return, there’ll still be competition for Jagr’s services, both in the NHL and Russia, and Arthur Staple of Newsday tells us ultimately that money will be the deciding factor.

Though he leaft the door open for a return to New York, Jagr is expected to take aome time to make his decision, suggesting that it may be after he hears what other teams are willing to offer up.

Sean Avery, who is recovering from a lacerated spleen, is in a similar boat, and after telling the Post yesterday that he “bleeds Rangers’ blue”, he also admitted that it will be a financial decision.

Four Rangers players are off to represent their respective countries in the World Championships (being held in Canada for the first time). Fedor Tyutin will join Russia, Henrik Lundqvist – Sweden, Michal Rozsival – Czech Republic and Brandon Dubninsky is making his national debut with the US team.