Zdeno Chara Returns to the Bruins in Advisory Role
The legendary former Boston Bruins captain, Zdeno Chara, has been named advisor and mentor of hockey operations for the Bruins, marking his return to the franchise he led to a Stanley Cup victory over a decade ago. According to a statement issued by the Bruins, Chara will work closely with players and staff to advise the organization in key areas. Your responsibilities will include developing relationships and strengthening communication between players and the coaching staff. Chara will also attend practices and home games, as well as provide support for off-ice development for defensemen. He will also make occasional visits to the Bruins’ AHL affiliate team to work with prospects.Chara, who began his career with the New York Islanders and then with the Ottawa Senators, joined the Bruins before the 2006-07 season, being named captain before his first campaign with the Original Six club. The burly defenseman became synonymous with the Bruins, playing 14 seasons with the team. His greatest achievement came in 2011, when he led the Bruins to their first Stanley Cup since 1972, the sixth in the franchise’s history. Chara played more than 1,000 games with the Bruins and was selected six times for the All-Star Game, in addition to winning the Norris Trophy for the NHL’s best defenseman in 2009. Chara’s return to the Bruins comes in the same year he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame and the IIHF Hall of Fame. This decision is the Bruins’ most recent move to look to their past, as the club also hired former forward Marco Sturm as head coach, as part of a possible fresh start for the franchise, which last year finished tied for the fourth-worst record in the NHL.The Bruins organization is excited and proud to welcome Zdeno back. In his role as an advisor and mentor, Zdeno will share his experience as a dedicated athlete, a respected leader, and one of the NHL’s all-time greats with our players and coaches.
Don Sweeney, Bruins General Manager
Having played alongside Zdeno, I know firsthand the leadership, work ethic, and professionalism he brings every day. We are delighted to have him back with the Bruins in this role, where his knowledge of the game will be a great resource for our players and staff.
Marco Sturm
