Insider reveals Zdeno Chara’s decision on NHL future

Zdeno Chara wanted so much more for his 23rd season in the National Hockey League. But it was taken away by his former team, the Boston Bruins, who eliminated the Washington Capitals from the postseason in the first round. Right after the Caps were ousted, the veteran defenseman admitted that the future was uncertain. He will hit free agency again after signing a one-year, $795,000 contract with the Capitals. He admitted to choosing Washington because of the important role they still allowed him to have on the roster. In Boston, things would have been different with a young pack pushing their way up on the blue line. However, things were hard on Chara, seeing that his family remained in Boston for the season. He made it clear he would talk with his family about what decision is best for his future. 

When free agency opened on Wednesday, a lot was happening, but not in Chara’s camp, which is what he wanted. The veteran player, who is in Slovakia spending time with family, is in no rush to make a decision on whether or not he will play again in the NHL. 

However, insider Frank Seravalli has revealed that he believes Chara will return next season and thinks he could be a good fit for the Florida Panthers, especially since he owns a house there. 

But, fans will need to be patient. 

“I think he’s just going to take a few weeks to decide. I wonder if he’s a fit in Florida, I think he has a house in Florida.”

Chara showed he still has some gas left in the tank. He scored 10 points (two goals, eight assists) and averaged 18:19 in ice time in 55 regular-season games and scored no points and averaged 16:16 in ice time in five games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. 

Will he indeed return next season?