Joe Thornton says he will only play for Sharks if he returns in 2019
Joe Thornton has had a little bit more time to ponder his playing future now that it has been two days since the San Jose Sharks lost to the St. Louis Blues in the Western Conference Finals, but the 39-year-old still has not made a decision. One thing he does know, however, is that the Sharks will be the last team he plays for.
Thornton was asked by reporters on Thursday if he plans to play a 22nd NHL season, and he would only say that he will be playing in San Jose again if he does return.
No decision yet from Joe Thornton on his future but he said if he plays in 2019-20, it will only be with San Jose. https://t.co/vCjfbrtkHD pic.twitter.com/BpGdaQLp2U
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) May 23, 2019
For what it’s worth, Sharks forward Evander Kane said he expects Thornton to be back.
Evander Kane on Thornton: “I think he’ll be even better next year if he plays. Which I think he will.”
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) May 23, 2019
Thornton scored 15 goals and had 51 total points in 73 regular season games this year, so he is still more than capable of contributing. He’s also still chasing his first Stanley Cup title after appearing in the playoffs 17 times, so he has plenty of motivation to play another season. It would be somewhat surprising if he retired.
