Bruins In Talks With Franchise Legend To Take On Front Office Role

Boston Bruins legend Zdeno Chara appears to be on the verge of making his return to the NHL.

It won’t come on the ice, but rather as a member of Boston’s front office.

The Boston Globe’s Kevin Paul Dupont reported Wednesday that Chara is joining the Bruins in a “front office consultant’s role.” Bruins general manager Don Sweeney responded to the report by confirming to The Globe that the team is in talks with Chara to bring him aboard.

“The Boston Bruins are excited to be exploring the opportunity to welcome Zdeno Chara in an advisory role that supports our players and coaches,” Sweeney said in the statement to The Globe. “We have had an open invitation and ongoing dialogue with Zdeno to return in some capacity whenever he felt it was right for both he and his family. Zdeno recently indicated he has interest to help and be involved. While his schedule and role are still unfolding, we believe he can make a positive impact on the organization as a mentor to our players and advisor to our coaching staff.”

Chara, 47, cemented himself as one of the greats in Bruins franchise history thanks to 14 illustrious seasons wearing the Black and Gold, which included winning the Stanley Cup in 2011.

Chara’s final season with the Bruins came in 2019-20 and he had stops with the Washington Capitals and New York Islanders before hanging up his skates in 2022.

The 6-foot-9 defenseman took some time away from the sport following his retirement, but stayed active — Chara’s peak physical condition during his playing days became lore among Bruins players — by running multiple marathons.

It seems like Chara is ready to get started in his new job. Dupont reported that Chara was at the Bruins’ practice facility Wednesday.

Chara, who ranks eighth in games played in franchise history and third in points among defensemen, was an exemplary captain with the Bruins and can bring terrific insight to Boston’s front office after playing 24 seasons in the NHL.