Joe Thornton to Put off Retirement and Play Next Season
By Scott Rogust
A "jumbo" staple of the NHL isn't going anywhere.
When speaking with the media at the NHL Awards in Las Vegas, veteran center Joe Thornton revealed that he intends to return for at least the 2019-20 season, citing that he feels he can go for a couple more years.
At NHL Awards availability, Joe Thornton says he feels great and will return for 2019-20. He also says he isn’t thinking about just one more season, but even more as long as he feels good.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 18, 2019
Thornton turns 40 years old on July 2, and expressed his desire to return to the San Jose Sharks for his 22nd NHL season. However, it's unknown if the Sharks will bring him back for their next campaign.
His status for the past two years came into question after suffering left and right ACL injuries. However, he's now entered his first NHL offseason in quite some time without any lingering injuries to rehab.
Thornton has accomplished many things throughout his professional career, but the one thing that has eluded him was the Stanley Cup. He came close in the 2016 Final, but has yet to have his name forever etched on Lord Stanley's Cup.
Joe Thornton's Hall of Fame career will continue for at least one more season.https://t.co/QtwQbO6VKM
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 18, 2019
Through 73 games this season, "Jumbo" Joe recorded 51 points (16 goals, 35 assists), while averaging 15.5 minutes of ice time.
As a result of his most recent campaign, Thornton was nominated for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which rewards the player who symbolizes sportsmanship, dedication, and perseverance in the NHL.
Don't call it a comeback. Thornton has been here for years, and has no intention to leave anytime soon.