Boston Bruins Honor Legendary Defenseman Zdeno Chara

The Boston Bruins are set to pay tribute to one of the franchise's most legendary players, Zdeno Chara, by retiring his No. 33 jersey at TD Garden. This significant event is scheduled for January 15, prior to a home game against the Seattle Kraken.

A Career of Excellence

Zdeno Chara, who captained the Bruins during his 14-season tenure from 2006 to 2020, established himself as a dominant force in the NHL. Notably, he won the Norris Trophy in 2009, recognizing him as the league’s best defenseman, and led the Bruins to a Stanley Cup championship in 2011, ending a 39-year championship drought for the franchise.

Before joining Boston, Chara spent five seasons with the New York Islanders and four with the Ottawa Senators. His transition to the Bruins marked the beginning of a remarkable period where he became a cornerstone of the team's defense, standing out for his towering 6-foot-9 stature and exceptional skills on the ice.

Record-Breaking Achievements

During his first six seasons with the Bruins, Chara was selected for five All-Star games and won the NHL's Hardest Shot competition five times, showcasing his powerful shot. His standout 50-point season in 2009 earned him the Norris Trophy, beating out hockey icon Nicklas Lidstrom.

After a successful career that also included two additional Stanley Cup Final appearances in 2011 and 2019, Chara concluded his playing days with the Washington Capitals and the Islanders before officially retiring in 2022. He ranks eighth in Bruins history with 1,023 games played and seventh for penalty minutes, with a total of 1,055.

Hall of Fame Legacy

Chara’s impact extended beyond the NHL, as he represented Slovakia in three Olympic Games, two World Cups of Hockey, and seven IIHF World Championships. His achievements culminated in his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2025, marking him as the 13th individual and the first European player to have his number retired by the Bruins.

The Boston Bruins have previously retired numbers for other franchise greats, including Willie O'Ree, Rick Middleton, and Bobby Orr. As Chara's No. 33 ascends to the rafters, it will serve as a lasting tribute to a player who left an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport.