FHN Today: Joe Thornton reportedly back in San Jose

There is word on the street that Joe Thornton, last seen playing for the Florida Panthers in the playoffs, has returned to San Jose.

Could a reunion with the Sharks be up next?

Thornton, who turned 43 earlier this summer, is back in the Bay area according to a tweet sent out by Corey Masisak of the Athletic on Friday.

“It looks like Joe Thornton and his family have moved back to San Jose while he figures out his next chapter,” Masisak tweeted.

“He’s been spotted at Sharks Ice a few times this month skating [with] SJS players, hanging out [with] SJS brass and at a Jr. Sharks practice.”

Later, Masisak tweeted that after speaking with the Sharks, “He has no official role with the organization at this time.”

The obvious thought is that Thornton could get a camp invite from the Sharks.

Here's an interesting note:

It looks like Joe Thornton and his family have moved back to San Jose while he figures out his next chapter. He's been spotted at Sharks Ice a few times this month skating w/SJS players, hanging out w/SJS brass and at a Jr. Sharks practice. (1/2)

— Corey Masisak (@cmasisak22) September 9, 2022

Sheng Peng writes at San Jose Hockey Now that “it’s believed that Thornton is still trying to hook on with a team for his 25th NHL campaign. It’s PTO season, and while it might seem improper for a legend of Jumbo’s stature to agree to a tryout, well, it might be where the 43-year-old is at if he wants to continue his playing career at the highest level in hockey.”

How about a reunion with Jonathan Huberdeau and MacKenzie Weegar and the Calgary Flames?

We do know that Thornton will not be returning to the Panthers.

PANTHERLAND

We continue our look at key members of the Florida Panthers heading into training camp on Sept. 22 with Sam Bennett.

With Huberdeau off to Calgary and Anthony Duclair hurt, who will Bennett play with — and where?

— The Panthers open their prospect tournament this week with a roster headlined by Justin Sourdif.

— The Panthers’ exhibition game against Carolina in Carolina will benefit youth hockey programs throughout South Florida.

NATIONAL HOCKEY NOW

— Former Washington Capitals goalie has a new start — and a new look — with the Leafs.

— The Bruins have high expectations for 25-year-old Brandon Carlo this season.

— Former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Dominik Simon has chosen to play overseas this season.

— Taking a look at the five players under the most pressure heading into Colorado Avalanche training camp.

— Looking at how the Montreal Canadiens are making inroads when it comes to player development.