Bruins Leaders Release Touching Statements On Zdeno Chára Hall Of Fame News
Tuesday was a big day for the Boston Bruins. Not only did they release their 2025 preseason schedule, but they also learned that Zdeno Chára was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.
Chára, who will be inducted on Nov. 10, spent 14 of his 24 NHL seasons with the Bruins. At 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds, he was the tallest player in NHL history and one of the league’s best defensemen, setting a record for games played at the position (1,680).
The Czech blueliner suited up in over 1,000 games for Boston from 2006 to 2020, helping the Bruins make three Stanley Cup Finals and win the 2011 title. He was one of the best and most memorable players in team history, serving as Boston’s captain during his entire 14-year tenure.
He was just as special off the ice, too, based on the heartfelt statements released by team owner and governor Jeremy Jacobs and team president Cam Neely.
“Zee is a superb human being in so many ways. Not only in size and skill, but also in his thoughtfulness and the respect he commands,” wrote Jacobs. “It’s no surprise that he was selected in his first year of eligibility, because he’s truly special. The Bruins were fortunate to get him and raise the Cup with him.”
Neely’s statement echoed Jacobs’, praising Chára for his “legendary leadership qualities,” “renowned off-ice conditioning” and “commanding physicality.”
Chára returned to his former team after retiring in 2022. He currently works in Boston’s front office as a consultant and mentors the team’s younger players, continuing to make a positive impact on the organization.
With Chára’s legacy secure, it’s likely only a matter of time before the Bruins retire his No. 33 and hang it from the TD Garden rafters.