New York Islanders defenseman Zdeno Chara has been in the NHL for 24 years. On Thursday night, his longevity paid off as he set the record for most games played by an NHL defenseman. Chara appeared in his 1,652nd game, which turned out to be a 4-3 shootout loss to the San Jose Sharks.
Chara, 45, is now tied for the seventh-most games played ever at any position in the NHL. On Thursday, he passed Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Chelios' mark that had stood since 2010. The Islanders defenseman is playing an average of 18:31 worth of ice time this season and has eight assists to his credit.
"It's such an honor and privilege to be in the same group as many great defenseman, but obviously passing Chris, he's set such a high standard for many of us and many generations," Chara said, according to ESPN. "It's been very inspiring and a huge motivation, and I want to thank him for that, because he was a tremendous player, an amazing leader and he's such a legend."
Despite breaking the mark on the road in San Jose, Chara received a standing ovation at SAP Center during the first period of the game. In addition, the Sharks played a video message from forward Patrick Marleau, who currently leads the NHL in games played.
"I'm very grateful, and I've been very lucky to have had many great teammates, coaches, trainers, friends," Chara added. "But none of that is more important than the support of my wife and my children. I wouldn't be sitting here if it weren't for them allowing me to still play the game and do what I do and help my teammates every night."
Chara made his NHL debut back in 1997 when he broke into the league with none other than the Islanders. In the ensuing 24 years of his career, Chara spent the majority of his time with the Boston Bruins and won a Stanley Cup in 2011. Chara spent the 2020-21 season with the Washington Capitals before returning to the Isles.
