It’s the end of an era in Boston. Iconic Bruins captain defenseman Zdeno Chara announced Wednesday that he is leaving his 14-year organization to join the Washington Capitals.
It was on Instagram that the 43-year-old announced the news so dreaded by all Boston supporters. Chara said the Bruins have chosen to give the young fullbacks a chance to stand out in the roster next season.
“Unfortunately, my time as the proud captain of the Bruins has come to an end,” Chara wrote on his social media.
The team from the US capital obviously jumped at the chance, and announced that Chara had agreed with them on the terms of a one-year contract and $ 795,000.
“We are extremely happy to have Zdeno with the organization of the Capitals,” said Washington general manager Brian MacLellan in a statement. We feel that his experience and leadership will strengthen our blue line and our team. ”
He is indeed one of the most experienced players in the National Hockey League (NHL) that the Capitals have obtained. In 1,553 games on the Bettman Tour, Chara had 205 goals and 451 assists for 656 points. He also added 70 points in 195 playoff games.
The dean of the NHL is also a former winner of the Norris and Mark Messier trophies.
Even though he made his marks individually, the 6’9 ”, 250lb giant has always been regarded as a great team player and teammate. In his multi-paragraph post, Chara opened his heart to anyone who may have crossed his path in Boston since 2006, the year he also became the 18th captain in the organization’s history.
“First, I want to thank the passionate and loyal Bruins fans, who have shared the ups and downs every season for the past 14 years. I’m proud we were able to bring the Stanley Cup back to Boston [en 2011] and celebrate with all of you in Boston, New England, and around the world. It’s a moment that I will never forget, ”said the Slovak, who also paid tribute to his teammates.
“From the highest peaks to the deepest lows, we were always a team, we were always there for each other and these moments of bonding and these friendships will never be forgotten,” said Chara.
The giant format defenseman has assured that he respects the organization’s decision to move on and that his love for Boston will never be affected.
“’Thank you’ doesn’t seem to be enough to express my sincere gratitude. I will always be a Bruin. I will always love Boston, ”said Chara, who will face his former team seven times in 2020-21.
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