Joe Thornton's Jersey Retired by Sharks

Joe Thornton, celebrated as the greatest player in San Jose Sharks history, had his No. 19 jersey retired during an emotional ceremony attended by former teammates and fans. Over his 15 seasons with the Sharks, Thornton became known for his exceptional playmaking skills, racking up 804 assists and 1,055 points, helping transform the franchise into a playoff contender. During the ceremony, Thornton expressed gratitude towards his teammates and the friendships formed throughout his career, stating, 'The best thing hockey ever gave me -- friends for life.' He joins Patrick Marleau as the only players with retired jerseys by the Sharks, symbolizing their shared legacy in the franchise. Thornton was originally the No. 1 overall pick by the Boston Bruins in 1997, but he found his most significant success after being traded to San Jose in 2005. The ceremony showcased the deep appreciation and respect his peers have for him, highlighting his impact both on and off the ice.