Report: Chara makes statement regarding retirement

Zdeno Chara will play the last of his seven years in his current contract this season with the Boston Bruins, and despite being 40 years old, the defenseman has no intention to retire next summer. 

“I definitely want to play beyond this season," Chara told CSNEE.com. "It’s really hard to put a number on it. Some people do and some people don’t. I just obviously want to keep playing [in the NHL] beyond this season. I love this game too much. I have made no secrets about it. I want to stay here [with the Bruins] and continue to play.”

The veteran is however aware his age can become a problem, especially with young prospects such as Charlie McAvoy cracking the lineup. 

"At my age I look at what I can still do and just really enjoy it. I just want to keep improving and play for as long as I can,” said Chara.

Chara remains the most-used defender by the Bruins from last season, playing an average time of 23 min 19 s per game. He recorded 10 goals and 29 points in 75 games. 

In 1350 career games, he amassed 188 goals and 416 assists, and a total of 1779 penalty minutes. He not only won the James Norris trophy in 2009, but also lifted the Stanley Cup back in 2011. 

Chara was looking for a contract extension at the end of last summer, but there was no discussion from either side this summer leading into the final year of his deal. He will have to prove his deserve an extension!