Joe Thornton to Play in Switzerland?

Will Joe Thornton sign in Switzerland?

Between periods of Pittsburgh-Montreal Game One, Elliotte Friedman reported on “Saturday Headlines” that the San Jose Sharks legend might head to Europe to play — with the intention of returning to the NHL when the 2020-21 season begins.

“Every August, he goes to Switzerland. We know the Sharks won’t be playing until December,” Friedman said. “The NHL and NHLPA have allowed players to sign overseas with clauses to come back then. Does Joe Thornton sign overseas in Switzerland to play and be ready, in better shape even, to return to the NHL for his 23rd season?”

Saturday Headlines are back!

– Will Mike Matheson face discipline for his hit on Johnny Boychuk?
– Will Joe Thornton play in Switzerland this summer?
– Injury updates?@FriedgeHNIC and @reporterchris discuss all the latest news from around the NHL: https://t.co/BLLEr5CiEX

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) August 2, 2020

On the surface, this story makes a lot of sense.

Aside from summering regularly in Switzerland, Thornton met his wife Tabea there when he played in HC Davos during the 2004-05 lockout.

In fact, when San Jose Sharks fan favorite Tommy Wingels went to play in Switzerland in 2017, he consulted with the Thorntons.

What better way for Jumbo to stay sharp until the winter?