what game? I'm not talking about a single game. He averages 3:41 per night on the PK (2nd in the league). And get out of here with that "he only does one thing" BS. You're better than that & know that's not true. That's just one reason he's still extremely valuable. He also leads the team in TOI overall, is on a 27 point pace with no PP time any more, and is the best mentor for young D you could ask for.
and if I can't ignore the bonuses until we know what they are then you can't assume he hits them either.
Ok, so now we can pretty much assume he will make at least $6.5m, unless the wheels come off, which I don't foresee.
I loved what Chara gave the B's in the past and I appreciate the Cup, whole nine yards.
I also realize that he's still a good defensive d-man, and very good on the PK because he doesn't have to move much. The other team wants to be in the B's end and he has less ground to cover.
I also realize that he has a TON of experience and can be a great mentor and calming influence on the young D.
That being said, I have some major issues with his puck possession, his puck handling abilities (under duress), and his lack of skating/speed.
He puts his D partners, and sometimes his F's in precarious positions because of where he gives them the puck.
He is a liability on the rush vs fast teams.
He will often turn the puck over (by flipping it high in the air out of the zone) because he lacks the ability to escape the forecheck.
He can't really play on the PP anymore.
This isn't me being mean or me hating Chara, this is me telling you what I see from him on a daily basis, and I only seeing him slowing down a bit more every year (despite his phenomenal work ethic and conditioning).
Looking at the Pros and Cons, I think a case can definitely be made for bringing him back, at least for next year. I have a hard time making a case fo bringing him back at $6.5m per, especially if that extra $1.5m goes on the the 2019-20 cap.
I don't think he's worth that much money for what he gives you.