Thornton’s No. 19 to be retired next season
The San Jose Sharks will retire Joe Thornton’s number next season, making him the second player in franchise history to receive the honor, the team announced Wednesday.
Thornton, who wore No. 19, spent 15 seasons of his 24-season NHL career with the Sharks. He won the Hart Trophy (MVP) and the Art Ross Trophy (top scorer) in 2006, and is the Sharks’ all-time leader in assists (804) and power-play points (402). He is second in points (1,055) and fourth in goals (251).
“It has been an honor and a privilege to play in the National Hockey League for 24 seasons,” Thornton said in a statement released by the team. “But when I came to San Jose, it felt like I was truly home. I fell in love with the area and the people, and I had the best years of my career wearing the Sharks crest.”
Thornton was the No. 1 overall pick to Boston in 1997 but made his largest impact with the Sharks. He helped them to a Stanley Cup Finals in 2016, as well as a President’s Trophy and four division titles.
Thornton finished his career with a season in Toronto and one in Florida. He announced his retirement from the NHL in October.
Thornton is sixth in NHL history in games played, seventh in assists and 12th in points (1,539). He also played in 187 postseason games, 28th all-time.
The team said details regarding Thornton’s ceremony will be released at a later date.
“Jumbo was the best playmaker of his generation and I feel lucky to have gotten to play with and against him,” Sharks general manager Mike Grier said in a statement. “On the ice, his size, strength and IQ made him impossible to defend but off the ice, he was the most caring and generous teammate I have ever had. He’s a special player and person, and is very deserving of this honor.”
The other Sharks player to have his number retired is Patrick Marleau, whose No. 12 went up to the rafters last year.