What is Next for Recently Retired Defenseman Zdeno Chara?

Zdeno Chara recently signed a contract with the Boston Bruins to retire from the NHL as a Bruin. His legacy as a Bruin will never be forgotten. He played his heart out and gave the Bruins everything he had to make the Bruins a franchise that will go down as one of the best ever. With his booming slap shot and height, he was a recognizable player from day one.

His commitment to the game of hockey was unmatched as he did things, playing an NHL playoff game with a broken jaw being one of them, which many other hockey players would not do. With Chara’s playing days officially over the question begs we wonder what is next for the big man?

The easiest answer would be to sit back, enjoy retirement, and get ready to watch some hockey on the television. He could very well do that, but hockey is in his blood and Chara will not stay out of the game forever.  Chara is one of the more dominant defensemen over the past 15 years, winning a Stanley Cup and a Norris Trophy. The fact is that Chara is too knowledgable, too experienced, and too hungry to stay out of the game and never be heard from again.  Chara could explore the opportunities of a general manager, scout, or even an assistant coach. He may be out of the game for now but he will not be out for long.

General Manager 

General managers have a wealth of information, connections, and poker face when it comes to making a team successful as Chara fits that mold and more. Throughout the years he has made many connections from his years with the Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, and Bruins. Chara has played NHL hockey for the Bruins for 14 years and knows what it takes to be a Bruin if he accepts this tole in Boston.

Chara knows the style of play, what a player needs to fit in, and more importantly the work ethic to play in the league as long as he did. With that said, Chara also has connections with the Bruins that could lead to connections elsewhere, opening up more opportunities. Although Cam Neely is still the general manager things could change or Chara could even accept the role of assistant general manager. I am sure there is a role for him if he wants it and this could be good for him to remain in the game.

Scout

Chara knows the ins and outs of the league. As a scout, he would be employed but not have to be at the rink every day. This would give him the freedom to see hockey at every level, and some opponents’ rinks, to see what players would fit the Bruins mold. He has played in Prince George, British Columbia, Slovakia, and Europe so he has an idea of what players could be recruited.

He is familiar with most of the current scouts for the Bruins, as most of them have been in the Bruins organization for some time now as a scout or former players. Chara has the experience to make a name for himself as a scout, having good relationships with many coaches and general managers.

Assistant Coach

The most likely destination for Chara if he does want to stay in the game. This role would fit him perfectly as he would be close to the ice, the players, and the game without having to put on a jersey. Chara could accept the assistant coaching position or an assistant coach that just runs the defense. Again, he has experience playing this game for so long that he would be an asset to the young guys working their way up through the organization.

Let’s face it players look up to Chara. They would look up to him because of his successful NHL career. Another plus is he would be able to skate in practice and give hand son training.

Chara had an amazing career, making only three stops in the process. He is well-liked and comes with a no-quit attitude. Chara can remain in the game with the positions listed above, with the Bruins or another organization. With his willingness to stay in the game there are opportunities for him to be successful again, this time in a role without a jersey.