Joe Thornton is almost certainly the greatest player in the history of the San Jose Sharks. He played 15 seasons in his 24-year career with the Sharks and he helped transform the team into a perennial playoff team — albeit one that fell short of winning the Stanley Cup.
Thornton played his last NHL game in 2022 and the Sharks recognized his lengthy career and tremendous contribution with a No. 19 jersey retirement ceremony Saturday night prior to the team’s game against the Buffalo Sabres.
Many of Thornton’s past teammates made an appearance at the ceremony, including Joe Pavelski and Patrick Marleau. The Golden State Warriors recognized the hockey great’s contributions to the Bay Area with a post the basketball team offered on X…