The following year , in 2002 -- 03 , Chára began to blossom into an elite NHL defenslolo posted new career highs with 30 assists and 39 points and became one of Ottawa 's top two defenders , along with Wade Redden .
The following year , in 2002 -- 03 , Chára began to blossom into an elite NHL defenseman . 
 He posted new career highs with 30 assists and 39 points and became one of Ottawa 's top two defenders , along with Wade Redden .