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Zdeno Chara happy to come “full circle” with the Islanders; still wants to win

Defenseman Zdeno Chara returns for a 24th NHL season in 2021-22, agreeing to terms Saturday on a one-year deal with the New York Islanders.

“I was very grateful for the opportunity to play for the Islanders,” he told the media yesterday. ‘It was my first team. My first NHL experience.”

The 44-year-old veteran of 1,608 games started his career with the Islanders, who drafted him in the third round in 1996. He played last season with the Washington Capitals, contributing two goals and eight assists in 55 games.

After the Caps were eliminated, Chara was pressed about his future.