Jun 22, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing
Bryan Bickell(29) is shoved by Boston Bruins defenseman
Zdeno Chara(33) during the first period in game five of the 2013 Stanley Cup Final at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
When he came to the Senators he was a big man who wasn’t yet a “hockey player”. Under Jacques Martin, Chara blossomed into a great all-around defenseman and Norris Trophy candidate and teamed with Chris Phillips for a great shutdown paring.
THE BREAK-UP: Despite the Senators attempts to resign both Chara and Wade Redden to identical contracts in the spring of 2006, Chara instead decided to leave and test free agency, signing a monster 6 year, $37.5M contract with the divisional rival Boston Bruins.
AFTER THE SENS: Chara instantly became the captain of the Bruins, and has led them to the finals twice, winning the Cup in 2011. He won the Norris Trophy in 2009 as was a finalist on 2 other occasions.