(San Jose) Joe Thornton will have his number 19 retired by San Jose next season, the Sharks announced Wednesday.
The ceremony will take place on a date to be determined.
Thornton will become the second player in Sharks history to receive this honor after Patrick Marleau, whose number 12 was retired on February 25, 2023.
“It was an honor and a privilege to play in the NHL for 24 seasons, but when I arrived in San Jose, I felt like I was truly at home,” Thornton said in a statement.
I fell in love with the area and the people, and had the best years of my career with the Sharks.
Joe Thornton
Thornton thanked Sharks owner Hasso Plattner, the San Jose organization, his teammates, fans and family for their support.
“I am humbled by this recognition, which reflects all the great teams we had (at the time). »
Thornton finished his career with the Florida Panthers in 2020-21 and the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2021-22.
In NHL history, he is sixth in games played (1,714), seventh in assists (1,109) and 13e for points (1539).
“Jumbo was the best game maker of its generation. I’m lucky to have been able to play with and against him, said Sharks general manager Mike Grier in a press release. His size, strength and hockey sense made him impossible to counter. »
“Off the ice, he was the most caring and generous teammate I had. He fully deserves this honor. »
Grier played in the NHL from 1996 to 2011 including three seasons with San Jose from 2006 to 2009.