The San Jose Sharks have re-signed center Joe Thornton to a one-year deal, according to Kevin Kurz of NBC Sports.
The deal is expected to be worth at least $6 million.
As @KKurzNBCS first reported, Joe Thornton intends to return to SJ. Terms are set but nothing signed yet. One year deal. At least $6M.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 1, 2017
There was plenty of speculation that Thornton would leave the Sharks, as the Kings, Maple Leafs, Predators, and Canadiens were all rumored to be interested in his services.
Though among the greatest playmakers of all time, the soon-to-be 38-year-old Thornton is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career, tallying just seven goals and 50 points in 79 games.
Thornton being back in the fold could persuade longtime Shark and unrestricted free agent Patrick Marleau to return to the Bay Area as well.
The Sharks have had a busy July 1, as they also inked goaltender Martin Jones and defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic to new extensions.
It's clear that general manager Doug Wilson is trying to keep together the team that is just one season removed from a Stanley Cup Final appearance.
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