Kris Letang hopes to follow in the footsteps of longevity like Pittsburgh Penguins icon, Jaromir Jagr.

At the age of 36, it’s safe to say that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is a true veteran in the sport.

When compared to one of the Penguins franchise’s all-time greats, however, Letang still seems like an up and coming youngster.

Jaromir Jagr is 51-years-old, yet still playing professional hockey with the team he own in his hometown of Kladno, Czechia.

“It’s crazy that he’s still playing,” Letang said. “He’s a freak of nature. I never had a chance to play with him, but I’ve heard some stories that after games he was out there doing some conditioning work.”

Letang is known around the Penguins organization as one of the most well conditioned players on the team, and that doesn’t seem to be slowing down.

Even in year 18, Letang is still averaging over 24:30 minutes of ice time per game.

Thanks to his conditioning, it made sense that he signed a six-year contract extension with the Penguins at the age of 35.

Letang will be in Pittsburgh until he's 42 and it's pretty likely he won't lose a step along the way.

Beyond personal accomplishments with longevity, Letang more than understands the kind of impact Jagr had on the Penguins organization, too.

When asked about the jersey retirement set for Jagr, Letang admitted to wearing No. 68 growing up.

“It’s about time I guess,” Letang said. “He was an amazing player to watch growing up, I was wearing 68 my whole childhood. It’s pretty cool.”

Hockey players can be particular about their numbers, and while he isn’t wearing 68 at the NHL level, 58 is pretty close and you can see the connection.

Letang has made his No. 58 his own, however, and is sure to one day have it retired alongside Jagr and other Penguins legends like Mario Lemiuex, Michel Brier, and possibly even teammates Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

Marc Andre Fleury may even squeeze into that conversation, as well.

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns and so much more.

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