For the first time since signing as a free agent with the Bruins in 2006, Zdeno Chara was not in the team’s opening-night lineup.
Due to the unspecified upper-body injury he suffered on Sept. 24 in a preseason game against the New York Rangers, Chara was a scratch for the Bruins against the Winnipeg Jets last night at the Garden. The Jets won, 6-2.
Chara took part in the morning skate before the opener at the Garden and allowed himself to take a few light slap shots, but didn’t overextend himself. The defenseman admitted to being cautious with the injury.