Chara lauds 'very classy' Canadiens fans for ovation during 1,500th game

Zdeno Chara is showing his appreciation for supporters of his team's biggest rival.

The Boston Bruins captain expressed his gratitude after fans at Montreal's Bell Centre gave him an ovation when he was acknowledged on the video board for playing the 1,500th game of his career Tuesday night.

“Obviously, that felt really nice," Chara told reporters following a 5-4 loss to the Canadiens. "I really appreciated it and it was very classy. It's something that I will definitely remember."

The 42-year-old defenseman stood up on the bench and waved to the crowd upon being recognized Tuesday for his achievement during a stoppage in play.

Chara doesn't fault Montreal's fans for booing him over the many years of his involvement in the rivalry.

"That just shows that they are very passionate fans (and) they support their team," he said. "Pretty normal for Canadien fans (to) show so much support for their team. We've had some good battles and it's a good rivalry. There's a lot of history with both teams, so it's always fun to play these games.”

In March 2011, Chara drew the ire of Canadiens fans when he hit then-Montreal forward Max Pacioretty into the stanchion at Bell Centre. Following the incident, some Canadiens fans called 911 and tried to get charges filed against the gargantuan blue-liner.

Chara became only the sixth rearguard in NHL history to suit up in 1,500 games, joining Chris Chelios, Scott Stevens, Larry Murphy, Ray Bourque, and Nicklas Lidstrom. All five of those legends are enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame.