After reportedly seeking a three-year deal throughout free agency, San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton signed a one-year, $8 million deal on Sunday and ensured his teal tenure would last at least one more season. Although not as long as longtime teammate Patrick Marleau’s three-year, $18.75 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Thornton’s contract is a hefty financial commitment to give a player that turned 38 the day he signed. That is especially so for one coming off of significant knee surgery and his worst offensive season in years.
Thornton will not just be among the highest paid players in their late 30s, but of the entire league.