Rod Brind'Amour and Zdeno Chara share classic handshake moment after Bruins' sweep

Handshakes following a playoff series is one of the NHL’s finest traditions.

Earlier this postseason, Carolina’s Dougie Hamilton boldly patted New York’s Brock Nelson on the head during handshakes after the Hurricanes swept the Islanders in the second round. And whenever the topic of epic post-series moments comes up, you have to mention Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur shafting Rangers forward Sean Avery back in 2008.

The conclusion of the 2019 Eastern Conference Final on Thursday night resulted in a moment of the classy variety. Following Game 4 of Boston’s sweep against Carolina at PNC Arena, Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour and Bruins captain Zdeno Chara shared an incredible moment caught on camera.

“Much respect for you,” said Brind’Amour, after asking Chara how he’s holding up. “You can’t keep doing this.”

The two shared a laugh and continued to trade compliments before continuing down the line.

Chara — the oldest player in the NHL at 42 years old and currently in his 21st season — was unable to play in the final game of the series due to an undisclosed injury.

Following the Bruins’ 4-0 win, he came onto the ice in full uniform for handshakes and to accept the Prince of Wales Trophy.

Like Chara, Brind’Amour, now 48, was known for his conditioning while playing in the NHL and put together an impressive 20-season career that included a Stanley Cup victory in 2006.

The two had 12 seasons of their playing careers overlap, all of which they both laced up for Eastern Conference teams. They’ve had plenty of battles on the ice and with Chara signing a one-year contract extension with the Bruins in late March, their days of competing against each other are far from over.

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