Copyright MassLive
Nobody who knew Zdeno Chara could have been surprised by the longtime Bruins captain’s speech when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on Monday night. Throughout his NHL career, Chara has been defined by being a straightforward, serious and sincere man, whose play was similarly unvarnished. His speech reflected that. After being presented by his idol, Nicklas Lidström, Chara thanked a long run of people who helped the tallest player in hockey history reach unprecedented heights. The largest section of his speech was about his time in Boston. That’s where he spent 14 seasons, the longest stretch of his career. It’s where he won the 2011 Stanley Cup and the Norris Trophy. It’s where he works now in the Bruins front office. But most of all, it’s where he helped create the foundation of the team’s locker room culture that still largely exists today. Watch his speech here Chara wanted to build something while continuing the Boston Bruinsdefined by franchise icons —Milt Schmidt, John Bucyk, Bobby Orr, Eddie Shore, Terry O’Reilly, Cam Neely, Ray Bourque, Don Sweeney and so many others — who he named in his speech. “Being named captain was a tremendous honor. I was incredibly proud to lead such an amazing group of teammates to the 2011 Stanley Cup Championship," he said. “We created something special in Boston. A culture,” he added. “That 2011 Stanley Cup with Claude Julien and his staff, I will never forget how you made me better every single day. You pushed me, trusted me and yes sometimes you tricked me, especially Marchy (Brad Marchand).” Chara made special mention of Patrice Bergeron, who’ll likely join him among the enshrined when he becomes eligible for the first ime. “I want to single out one player. I want to thank Patrice Bergeron,” he said. “One of the greatest leaders and people I’ve ever met and played with. My longest teammate and co-captain, Bergy. I could always count on you. You’ve shown me and helped me become a better leader, a better player, but more importantly, a better person.” Chara’s induction was the highlight of a night filled with Boston flavor. He was honored along with: Bruins’ No. 1 overall draft pick Joe Thornton. Legendary Boston University coach Jack Parker, was inducted as a builder. Canadian national team superstar Jennifer Botterill played at Harvard. Team USA gold-medal-winning star Brianna Decker played professionally in Boston for the Boston Blades and Boston Pride.
