Joe Thornton left a lasting impact on the ice in the Bay Area, ranking second on the Sharks' all-time points list after 15 seasons in San Jose. However, Jumbo Joe - who signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday - was also one of the team's most beloved players off the ice.
That was evident after Thornton called members of the Sharks before news broke of his signing with the Leafs, per The Athletic's Kevin Kurz. It was also made clear by all the support Thronton's ex-teammates gave to the greatest player in Sharks franchise history.
Daaaamn.... going to miss a lot more then just laughing with this guy... ultimate teammate, friend and guy to learn from..@MapleLeafs got a great one coming! pic.twitter.com/S0WMD3aHy7
— Brent Burns (@Burnzie88) October 16, 2020
For more than two decades, Jumbo and I have been friends, with the vast majority of those years being teammates, too. I now consider him a brother. Toronto has gained a tremendous influence, and we will miss his presence here in San Jose. Good luck in TO! -PM pic.twitter.com/pE09ZLjllz
— Christina Marleau (@c_marleau) October 17, 2020
Mentor, line mate, friend and all of the above. Going to miss having him around the locker room. They don’t make them like him anymore! You got a good one @MapleLeafs. Good luck in Blue Jumbo! pic.twitter.com/gyDlWqRMNe
— Kevin Labanc (@Str8ToTheBanc) October 16, 2020
Man I’m going to miss ya, but feel very fortunate to play with you and become great friends. So many fun memories in a short period of time. I’ll make sure to keep your seat next to me at the back of the plane vacant until you come back. pic.twitter.com/i2sJdY23nr
— Evander Kane (@evanderkane_9) October 16, 2020
More Couture: “I guess it's fair to say that I'm still kind of numb about it. At the same time, it’s his choice, and everyone in this organization respects him for everything that he's done for all of us players… He’s meant so much for my career."
— Kevin Kurz (@KKurzNHL) October 16, 2020
All the best to the big man. Hopefully this is not our last photo taken together both as sharks. ;) #covidtimes pic.twitter.com/a8vkE1fQ5b
— Erik Karlsson (@ErikKarlsson65) October 16, 2020
Thornton is still chasing his first career Stanley Cup.
