SJHN Daily: Thornton Still Helping Sharks, Though Next Step Unclear

Though he has yet to officially call it a career, San Jose Sharks legend Joe Thornton remains unsigned with the 2022-23 season a quarter way through. Despite being 43 years old, his passion for the game remains as strong as ever.

He has been attending many Sharks and Barracuda games and practices with members of the front office, as he appears to still be mulling his future. Per the Mercury News, he’s had regular interactions with Sharks players, like dinner with Mario Ferraro and passing on skating tips to Kevin Labanc.

Given Thornton’s 10-point season and frequent healthy scratches in 2021-22 as a member of the Florida Panthers, an on-ice return feels unlikely at this point.

However, a front office job seems to very well be an option for the 2005-06 Hart Trophy winner, should he wish to do so.

Will that job be with the San Jose Sharks?

AT SAN JOSE HOCKEY NOW…

The San Jose Sharks are still searching for a win song this season.

Aaron Dell was fantastic in his season debut on Wednesday, but it wasn’t enough.

Tomas Hertl was quick to take the blame after a recent 3-1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Given their position in the standings, there are several San Jose Sharks who could be traded this season.

IN OTHER SHARKS NEWS…

Former Shark Joel Ward is celebrating his 42nd birthday.

Happy 42nd Birthday to #SJSharks alumni forward Joel Ward.

📸 Getty Images pic.twitter.com/X9vuQSiFt4

— San Jose Sharks History (@sjsharkshistory) December 2, 2022

Yet again, the Sharks penalty kill has continued to be incredible this season.

Despite the penalty kill, however, the Sharks find themselves near the bottom of The Athletic’s current power rankings.

Jeff Viel has been re-assigned to the San Jose Barracuda.

The #SJSharks have reassigned F Jeff Viel to the Barracuda pic.twitter.com/Z9hohEOSdY

— San Jose Barracuda (@sjbarracuda) December 1, 2022

AROUND THE NHL…

Cole Caufield is setting himself up for a massive pay day in the not so distant future.

Calgary Flames’ Jacob Markstrom was brutally honest about his play so far this season.

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is believed to be okay after suffering a stroke on Monday.

The Boston Bruins and David Pastrnak are continuing to discuss a contract extension.

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Patrick Maroon donates to charity after disrespectful comments from a Bruins broadcaster.

Oliver Wahlstrom recently laid a beating on Philadelphia Flyers’ Tony DeAngelo.

Valeri Nichushkin has begun skating with the Colorado Avalanche as he continues to rehab from injury.