For the 24th season in his legendary career, star center Joe Thornton has signed an one-year deal with Florida Panthers.Thornton, 42 years old, will receive $750,000 as a result of the deal. There are no bonuses or incentive.Thornton stated, "I see their team in paper, I saw their team last year. I love their team, that's all." "I love the team they are building and I'm thrilled to be a part of it. The Stanley Cup is ultimately about winning it, and I think the Panthers are there.Thornton is one the most productive offensive centres in NHL history. With 1,529 career points, he is 14th in the list and only five points from being number 12. He ranks seventh in career assists, with 1,104 in 1,680 matches with the San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs.He stated that he was impressed by the Florida playoff series with Tampa Bay and had watched it last spring. The Panthers reached out to Thornton weeks ago in order to include him in the mix.Thornton stated, "The energy these men bring every day, it's amazing how they want work every day, and they want to improve every day." "I just really look forward to being a part of their journey."Thornton's 15-year San Jose run was ended last season with his stint in Toronto. He played 44 games and scored five goals and assisted 15 times. Although his average ice time was only 13 minutes and 43 seconds, Thornton was able to play up with Auston Matthews while also playing in the bottom six. This versatility is what Bill Zito, Panthers general manager, cited as the reason for Thornton's pursuit.Zito stated that Zito's drive to succeed was evident and that he signed with our club.Thornton was seen practicing with HC Davos, the Swiss National League, during the offseason.Thornton stated, "The body feels great, the mind feels great, and I knew pretty much immediately after the season, so I started training right away, and it felt good." "Here we go again."Roberto Luongo, the Panthers executive, was Thornton's teammate on the Canadian Olympic men’s hockey team that won gold at Vancouver.This report was contributed by The Associated Press.
