Zdeno Chara helped change the culture of the Bruins over his 14 years in Boston. He was the captain for his entire tenure, won a Stanley Cup with the team in 2011, helped lead them to Finals in 2013 and 2019 and is a 2009 Norris Trophy.

A quick look at his résumé and it seemed like a no-brainer that the Bruins would retire his No. 33.

But not to Chara .

“It was quite surprising to me,” Chara said Tuesday . “I had no idea that was coming, and it was quite a shock. It’s a huge honor, incredible honor. I never imagined, coming to Boston, that one day I’m going to have my jersey retired and hanging in the rafters. It’s such a privilege.”

The Bruins announced they will officially retire Chara’s number on Jan. 15, 2026 in a pregame ceremony.

“It’s incredible, but not a surprise to

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