“My life might end”: Former NHLer recounts being ‘immobilized’ against ‘giant’ Zdeno Chara

NHL: Boston Bruins at Ottawa Senators - Source: Imagn

Former Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara held the distinction of setting the record for tallest player in NHL history at 6'9, easily one of the most intimidating figures to ever lace up a pair of skates in hockey's top league.

Most of his career was spent with Boston, though he also played with the New York Islanders (twice), the Ottawa Senators, and the Washington Capitals before he retired in 2022.

To say that Chara was a physically imposing presence would be a major understatement. And that's what former NHL player Louie DeBrusk found out as a young player with the Tampa Bay Lightning when he was challenged to fight by Chara, then with the Islanders.