Boston Bruins retire Zdeno Chara's no. 33 jersey

The Boston Bruins honored one of their greatest defensemen by retiring Zdeno Chara’s no. 33 jersey in a moving ceremony on January 15, 2026. The event took place before the team’s game against the Seattle Kraken at TD Garden. Fans filled the arena two hours early, creating an electric atmosphere as Chara’s legacy was celebrated.

Chara, a 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee and the 2009 Norris Trophy winner, spent 14 of his 24 NHL seasons with the Bruins. He captained the team to the 2011 Stanley Cup championship. This retirement marks the 13th number raised to the rafters by the Original Six franchise.

The ceremony at center ice

The pre-game ceremony featured a podium at center ice, flanked by a “Big Zee” ice sculpture and a massive no. 33 backdrop. Zdeno Chara addressed the crowd directly, sharing reflections on his time in Boston. The fans responded with a thunderous chant of “Zee!” followed by prolonged cheers of “Thank you, Chara!”

Several Bruins legends joined the event, including Bobby Orr, John Bucyk, Cam Neely, and Willie O’Ree. Their presence underscored Chara’s place among the franchise’s immortals. The ceremony highlighted the deep connections within Bruins history.

As detailed in ESPN’s coverage, the event was meticulously planned to honor Chara’s impact. Fans’ early arrival ensured everyone witnessed the historic moment. The energy inside TD Garden was palpable from the start.

Chara’s speech emphasized gratitude toward the organization and supporters. He spoke of the city’s passion for hockey and how it shaped his career. The crowd’s response showed the mutual respect built over years.

This moment capped a week of anticipation, first announced by the NHL in July 2025. It delivered on promises of a fitting tribute.

Chara’s storied career with the Bruins

Zdeno Chara arrived in Boston ready to elevate the team. Over 14 seasons, he played 1,022 games, amassing 519 points and 1,640 penalty minutes. His physical presence and leadership defined the Bruins’ defensive identity.

In 2011, Chara led the Bruins to their first Stanley Cup since 1972. He logged massive minutes, often over 25 per game in the playoffs. His shot from the point became legendary, terrorizing goalies league-wide.

Chara holds the record for most games played by an NHL defenseman at 1,680. With Boston, he won the Norris Trophy in 2009 for his dominant play. His durability and skill set him apart.

Beyond stats, Chara changed the team’s culture. Former teammate Marco Sturm noted how practices intensified upon his arrival, as reported in recent Bruins notebooks. This shift contributed to sustained success.

Off the ice, Chara’s philanthropy and fitness regimen inspired many. Running marathons post-retirement shows his commitment to excellence.

Gifts and future adventures

The Bruins presented Chara with a trip to Australia. He plans to run the Sydney Marathon there, advancing his goal of completing all seven major marathons. This gift aligns with his post-hockey pursuits.

Chara has already tackled several world marathons, blending endurance with his hockey toughness. The Sydney event will be a highlight in his athletic journey.

Such honors reflect the organization’s appreciation. The trip symbolizes new chapters while honoring past glories.

Fans on X echoed the sentiment, with posts celebrating the retirement and Chara’s multifaceted legacy. The buzz extended beyond the arena.

Legacy in the rafters

No. 33 now joins numbers like Orr’s 4, Bucyk’s 9, Neely’s 8, and O’Ree’s 22. This group represents excellence across eras.

Chara’s banner will overlook future games, reminding players of the standard. Young defensemen can draw from his example of longevity and leadership.

The Bruins continue building on this foundation. Recent performances show a team poised for contention.

For fans, the ceremony reinforced Boston’s hockey passion. It was a night of nostalgia and forward-looking pride.

As the Bruins move ahead, Chara’s influence endures. His no. 33 retirement cements his status as a franchise pillar, inspiring generations. The event’s success ensures his story lives on in TD Garden’s rafters.