Tipster profile image
Victor Petkov
twitter iconlikedin iconlikedin icon
Head of Content authorBadge
Last Updated:

4 min read

Bruins to retire Zdeno Chara’s No. 33 in January ceremony at TD Garden
google news logo Follow us
Add comment
Chara will become the 13th player in Bruins history to have his number raised to the rafters

The Boston Bruins announced that they will retire the legendary No. 33 jersey of former captain Zdeno Chara. The ceremony will take place on Thursday, January 15, at TD Garden, before the Bruins’ home game against the Seattle Kraken.

Chara, who captained the team from 2006 to 2020, will become the 13th player in Bruins history to have his number raised to the rafters and the first since Willie O’Ree’s No. 22 in 2022.

“The Rafters are a fitting home for 33, because there will never be another Zdeno Chara,” said Bruins Owner and Governor Jeremy M. Jacobs. “From his skill, size and physical dominance on the ice, to his leadership in the locker room and impact on the Boston community, Zee is a legend of the game and the ultimate Bruin.”

Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Chara’s unmatched leadership and character. “There is no greater embodiment of what it means to be a Boston Bruin than Zdeno Chara,” he said. “Over his 14 years as captain, Zdeno helped define Boston Bruins hockey with his drive for on-ice excellence and his commitment to the greater Boston community.”

Chara’s legacy in Boston is firmly cemented by his accomplishments. He captained the Bruins to their first Stanley Cup victory since 1972 in 2011, appeared in two additional Stanley Cup Finals (2013 and 2019), and guided the team to the playoffs in 11 of his 14 seasons. His 14 Game 7 appearances are tied with Patrice Bergeron for the most in NHL history.

Over 200 playoff games, Chara recorded 18 goals and 52 assists for 70 points. Known for his leadership, physical dominance, and professionalism, he became one of the most respected figures in hockey — both in Boston and across the league.