NHL Legend Joe Thornton Officially Retires After 24 Seasons, Leaving a Lasting Legacy
After an impressive career spanning 24 seasons, NHL legend Joe Thornton has officially announced his retirement. The former captain of the San Jose Sharks made the announcement on Saturday via a video posted on the team’s social media accounts, marking the end of an era for one of the most cherished athletes in Bay Area history.
Affectionately known as Jumbo, Thornton was originally selected as the first-overall pick by the Boston Bruins in the 1997 NHL Draft. However, it was his trade to the Sharks in November 2005 that truly cemented his place as a franchise icon. Over the course of 15 years with the Sharks, Thornton made an immediate impact, recording an incredible 125 points during his first season and earning the prestigious Hart Trophy as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player in the 2005-06 season.
During his tenure with the Sharks, Thornton played in an astounding 1,248 games, serving as the team’s captain for four seasons from 2010 to 2014. His lasting contribution to the organization is evident in his impressive stats: he amassed 1,055 points, ranking second in the franchise’s history, and his 804 assists comfortably lead the pack for a team long associated with his dominant presence.
After concluding his stint with the Sharks following the 2019-2020 NHL season, Thornton continued his journey with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers. His illustrious career came to a close with his last NHL appearance on May 5, 2022. Thornton leaves the ice as the 12th-highest scorer in NHL history, with an impressive 1,539 points earned over 1,714 regular-season games.
As fans bid farewell to Joe Thornton, his legacy will be felt for years to come. His contributions to the sport of hockey and the Bay Area community are immeasurable. Thornton’s love for the game and the countless individuals who helped him achieve his childhood dream are evident in his retirement message. And while he may no longer be on the ice, one thing is certain: Joe Thornton will always be found at the rink, embodying the spirit of the game he holds so dear.
