Bruins Tab Hall Of Famer Zdeno Chara For New Role

“Big Z” is coming home.

The Boston Bruins announced on Thursday that Hall of Fame defenseman and franchise legend Zdeno Chara had been named as Hockey Operations Advisor and Mentor.

According to a release, Chara’s new gig will see him “work closely with both players and staff to advise the organization in key areas.”

The 48-year-old’s main responsibilities, per the release, include “building relationships and strengthening communication between players and coaches, attending practices and home games, and providing off-ice development support to defensemen.”

“The Bruins organization is excited and proud to welcome back Zdeno,” Bruins general manager Don Sweeney said. “In his role as an advisor and mentor, Zdeno will share with our players and coaches his experience as a dedicated athlete, a respected leader and one of the NHL’s all-time greats.”

It’s been a big year for Chara, as the longtime Bruins captain was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame in June.

First-year head coach Marco Sturm had heavy praise for his former teammate following Thursday’s announcement.

“Having played alongside Zdeno, I know firsthand the leadership, work ethic and professionalism he brings every day,” Sturm said, according to the release. “We’re thrilled 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.”

Chara led Boston to three Stanley Cup Finals appearances and its most recent championship in 2011.

The former Norris Trophy winner retired after the 2021-22 season with the New York Islanders.