1652 games in the NHL | Zdeno Chara breaks record for most games played by a defender

(San Jose) Zdeno Chara shattered the record for most games played by a defenseman in the NHL on Thursday.

The seven-time All-Star Game participant hit the ice for the New York Islanders-San Jose Sharks game to start his 1652^and part in season. It beat the previous mark, set by member of fame, Chris Chelios.

Chara received a standing ovation from the SAP Center crowd during a stoppage in play. The Sharks then played a pre-recorded congratulatory message on the giant screen from former San Jose Sharks forward Patrick Marleau. He holds the record for most games played, regardless of position.

The Slovakian star, the tallest player in NHL history at six-foot-nine, is nearing the end of a stellar career that began in 1997. He started his career at age 20 and will celebrate his 45^and birthday in three weeks.

He signed a one-year deal at the start of the season to return to the first team he played with.

Chara won the Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top defenseman, in 2008-09 while playing for the Boston Bruins. Two seasons later, he captained the Bruins to their Stanley Cup title.

He also played for the Ottawa Senators and Washington Capitals.