“Wearing this jersey in front of you all was the greatest honor,” Chara added.

The Boston Bruins retired Zdeno Chara’s number in a ceremony before Thursday night’s game against the Seattle Kraken.

But all the awareness and preparation didn’t adequately prepare him for what Thursday would feel like. At the ceremony making his No. 33 the Bruins’ 13th retired jersey, Chara was overwhelmed.

Bruins legend Zdeno Chara paid the Boston fans an incredible compliment at the ceremony to retire his number 33.

McAvoy, Pastrnak and Chara have continued to grow their relationship in a new respect this season; Chara rejoined the organization as a Hockey Operations Advisor and Mentor. He is around the rink on almost a daily basis and pitches in his advice and observations when necessary.

Bruins royalty will be honored on Thursday night, as Zdeno Chara will see his number retired at the TD Garden before Boston’s game against the Kraken. A few former Bruins are expected to attend the event,

After a single season in the Western Hockey League, he entered the AHL in the 1997-98 season with the Kentucky Thoroughblades. At just 20 years old, Chara showcased his potential, participating in 48 games and earning a spot on the AHL All-Rookie Team alongside future NHL stars like Daniel Briere and Jean-Sebastien Giguere.

McAvoy, the current Bruins and Team USA standout defenseman, credits his rise to stardom to his former captain, partner, and mentor — big No. 33.