Zdeno Chara’s Legacy Cemented as Bruins Retire His Number 33 Jersey
Boston, MA – In a ceremony held at the TD Garden on January 15, 2026, the Boston Bruins retired the number 33 jersey of legendary defenseman Zdeno Chara. The event marked a milestone in Chara’s illustrious career, which spanned 24 seasons in the NHL, including 14 with the Bruins.
Chara, who signed with the Bruins in 2006, chose the number 33 without much thought, only to later discover its significance. “Little did I know how meaningful 33 was,” Chara said, referencing the fact that the number was already iconic in Boston sports, worn by Celtics legend Larry Bird. The number 33 is now the 13th retired by the Bruins, joining an esteemed group of Hall of Fame defensemen that includes Eddie Shore, Bobby Orr, and Raymond Bourque.
A Legendary Career
Chara’s impressive career is marked by numerous achievements, including the 2009 Norris Trophy and his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2025. He played a crucial role in the Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup championship, leading the team to their first title in 39 years. Chara’s 1,680 games played is the most of any NHL defenseman, and his 6-foot-9 frame makes him the tallest player in league history. His 108.8 mph slap shot in the 2012 skills competition remains the NHL record.
Chara’s impact on the Bruins extends beyond his on-ice accomplishments. His signing with the team in 2006 marked a turning point for the franchise, which had not won a playoff series in six years. “Things really changed when Zee came here as a free agent,” said Raymond Bourque, a Bruins legend and Hall of Famer. “From that point on, the culture and everything that comes with that, and the success and the run that they had, he was such a big part of that.”
A Celebration of Chara’s Legacy
The jersey retirement ceremony was attended by numerous Bruins greats, including Bourque, Orr, Cam Neely, Willie O’Ree, Rick Middleton, Terry O’Reilly, and John Bucyk. The current Bruins team wore Chara jerseys, and five members of the 2011 roster – Patrice Bergeron, Mark Recchi, Dennis Seidenberg, David Krejci, and Tuukka Rask – carried the retired number onto the ice. Andrew Ference, a teammate of Chara’s, served as emcee for the event.
A highlight video featuring former Bruins Brad Marchand and current coach Marco Sturm, Chara’s teammate from 2006 to 2010, showcased Chara’s leadership and dedication to the team. “He wasn’t really a ‘Rah, rah!’ guy,” said Cam Neely, “but when he spoke, it was with a purpose.” The ceremony also included a “Big Zee” ice sculpture and a large No. 33 behind the lectern, and fans were treated to a giant shout of “Zee!” followed by an extended cheer of “Thank you, Chara!”
When it was time to raise his No. 33 to the rafters, Chara stood by with his wife, Tatiana, while their children – Zack, Ben, and Elliz – pulled the ropes. “That’s the biggest reward for me: to see my children and my family doing it instead of me,” Chara explained. “I think I get better joy watching them doing it than the joy of me doing it because it’s so much more meaningful. They deserve that more than me.”
As the Bruins continue to build on their legacy, Chara’s retired number 33 jersey serves as a reminder of the team’s rich history and the impact of its legendary players. With his number forever etched in the TD Garden rafters, Chara’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Bruins players and fans alike.
