Bruins History Being Made

Zdeno Chara hoisting the Stanley Cup. Photo Courtesy: NHL.com

After 14 seasons as captain, a Stanley Cup, and decades of dedication, the Bruins prepare to raise #33 to the rafters, a fitting tribute to Zdeno Chara.

On January 15th, 2026, before their game against the Seattle Kraken, the Boston Bruins will retire the #33 jersey of former captain Zdeno Chara raising his number to the rafters at TD Garden in Boston, the 13th number retired in franchise history.

Chara, one of the best defensemen in Bruins history, stood at 6 foot 9, was not only a physical player, but also embodied leadership, longevity, and competitive excellence. He joined the Bruins in 2006 as a free agent, and from that moment was named team captain, holding that role throughout 14 seasons.

Throughout his 14 seasons Chara played 1,023 regular season games for the Bruins, and he accumulated 481 points. He was an active part of the victory in the 2011 Stanley Cup championship, the first Stanley Cup since 1972. He was also a key player in their finals runs (2013, 2019). He won the prestigious Norris trophy in 2009, meaning he was the best defenseman in the NHL. Beyond the on-ice achievements, he was a cultural figure by mentoring countless younger players. After retiring in 2022, he returned to the organization to become a hockey operations and player development leader for the Bruins. To this day, he continues to stay involved off the ice, leading with leadership and serving with mentorship.

Zdeno Chara signs with the Bruins in 2006. Photo Courtesy: The Boston Globe

Chara will become the first European born player in Bruins history to have his number retired. The ceremony is not only recognition for the individual achievements, but also his defining role in shaping the Bruins identity for more than a decade. Everything he has proved was with his ethic, style, leadership, and mentorship.

Fellow Bruins fan and Dean College Student, Harrison Soep, said, “I think it’s amazing accomplishment when you think of the Bruins, Chara is definitely up there among the greats like Orr, Bourque, or O Reilly.”

Players, management, and the fans all have recognized the significance of this moment. The Bruins leadership often referred to him as "Big Z" or "a legend of the game", someone who left a lasting impact both on and off the ice.

As someone who remains within the organization in a mentor role, Chara is helping shape the next generation of defensemen, passing on experience and leadership. His influence remains relevant as the Bruins navigate the evolving NHL. Younger defensemen now look up to him not just as a former captain but a daily presence.