Zdeno Chara and Duncan Keith experienced contrasting emotions in a pivotal 2013 Stanley Cup final game. Chara’s Boston Bruins were on the verge of victory with a 2-1 lead until Chicago scored twice in a remarkable 17-second span to clinch a 3-2 win and their second Cup in four years. Reflecting on the shocking turn of events years later, Chara acknowledged the unpredictable nature of sports and life. On the other hand, Keith, who dreaded a Game 7 just moments earlier, found it special to secure the win against a formidable opponent.
Both Chara and Keith, distinguished defensemen with illustrious NHL and international careers, will be honored together as part of the 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame class. The induction ceremony will also feature Joe Thornton, Alexander Mogilny, Jennifer Botterill, and Brianna Decker, alongside builders Jack Parker and Danièle Sauvageau.
Chara, 48, excelled with the Boston Bruins for 14 seasons, serving as captain throughout. He led the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2011 and two other final appearances. Known for his physical presence and defensive prowess, Chara, the tallest player in NHL history, amassed impressive career stats, including 680 points in 1,680 regular-season games and 70 points in 200 playoff matches.
Keith, 42, enjoyed a successful 16-season tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks, winning three Stanley Cups and earning multiple accolades, including the Conn Smythe Trophy. Following a trade to the Edmonton Oilers in 2021, Keith concluded his career with 646 points in 1,256 games and 91 playoff points in 151 appearances.
Thornton, a former Boston Bruins captain and first overall pick in 1997, had a distinguished career spanning 24 seasons, notably with the San Jose Sharks. With accolades such as the Hart Trophy and Olympic gold, Thornton ranks among the top players in NHL history in points and assists.
Mogilny, a former Buffalo Sabres standout, achieved significant success in the NHL, including a Stanley Cup win with the New Jersey Devils and over 1,000 career points. Botterill, a decorated Canadian player, was part of multiple Olympic gold-winning teams and continues to contribute to hockey through her work in television.
Sauvageau, the first female builder in the Hall of Fame, has made significant contributions to women’s hockey, including coaching Canada to Olympic gold. Decker, a gold medalist at the 2018 Olympics, has excelled on the international stage, winning world championship gold multiple times.
The Hall of Fame induction recognizes the remarkable careers and contributions of these esteemed individuals to the sport of hockey.