Zdeno Chara finally hangs up his skates

Three NHL players announced their retirement from the game on Tuesday. One of those players was Zdeno Chara, who after 24 years in the NHL decided to call it a career. He spent 14 years with the Boston Bruins, five years including his final season with the New York Islanders, four years with the Ottawa Senators and one season as a member of the Washington Capitals.

Even though it only lasted for one season it was a lot of fun watching Chara rock the red, white and blue and calling him ours. He brought leadership to the locker room and many players young and old looked up to him. Though he was definitely the oldest in the room.

Chara was drafted in the third round at 56th overall by the Islanders back in 1996. He signed a one day contract with the Bruins to retire with them. His time with the Bruins was when he was well known around the league. He even helped them to a Stanley Cup in 2011.

In Chara’s lone season with he Caps he recorded two goals and eight assists for 10 points in 55 games. It was a pandemic shortened season but he only missed one game.

Chara’s two goals both came against former teams. His first goal came against the Islanders at home in a 6-3 win on Jan. 28. On Feb. 1 he lit the lamp again this time at home against the Bruins in an eventual loss where the Caps blew the lead.

Chara was 43 years old when he suited up for the Caps. He retires after having just turned 45. He made the announcement on his Instagram.

Chara wrote the following: “After 25 seasons of professional hockey, 1,680 NHL regular season games, 200 Stanley Cup Playoff games, and hundreds of international games I am proud to announce my decision to retire from the National Hockey League. In doing so, I am honored to return to TD Garden to sign a one day contract with the Boston Bruins and officially finish my career with the team that has meant so much to me and my family. There are so many people that have helped contribute to my success, including all of you, and I look forward to properly thanking everyone.”

Congrats on a stellar career, Big Zee! Stars and Sticks wishes you the best in your retirement.