“It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to the game,” said Thornton. “I’ve had an incredible journey, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have played at the highest level for as long as I did.”
Thornton, known as “Jumbo Joe” for his exceptional size and skill, made his NHL debut in 1997 with the Boston Bruins. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s top offensive players, winning the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL’s leading scorer in 2006. Thornton also holds the record for most assists in a single season (96 in 2005-06).
After spending nine seasons in Boston, Thornton joined the San Jose Sharks in 2005 and became a cornerstone of their franchise. He helped lead the Sharks to the Stanley Cup Final in 2016 and was named the team’s captain in 2010.
“Joe is one of the greatest players to ever play the game,” said Sharks general manager Doug Wilson. “His impact on our organization and the entire NHL will never be forgotten.”
Thornton’s retirement marks the end of an era. He was one of the last remaining players from the “Golden Era” of the NHL, when players like Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, and Steve Yzerman dominated the league.
“Joe was a true playmaker,” said former teammate Patrick Marleau. “He had a way of making everyone around him better. He’s one of the best I’ve ever seen.”
Thornton leaves the NHL with an impressive resume that includes 1,539 points (433 goals, 1,106 assists) in 1,656 games. He was a three-time All-Star, won the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP in 2006, and was named to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019.
While some fans may have hoped to see Thornton return for another season, his retirement comes as no surprise. The veteran centerman had been contemplating his future for several months and ultimately decided it was time to step away from the game.
“I’ve given everything I had to the game of hockey,” said Thornton. “Now it’s time for me to focus on my family and the next chapter in my life.”
Thornton’s retirement is a reminder that even the most illustrious careers must come to an end. But his legacy will live on long after he has left the ice. He will be remembered as one of the greatest players of his generation and a true legend of the National Hockey League.
