BREAKING: 24 year long NHL veteran officially announces retirement

The former Hart Trophy winner leaves behind an impressive legacy, with 430 goals, 1,109 assists, and a total of 1,539 points amassed over 1,714 games. His achievements include a well-deserved Hart Trophy award.

Hailing from London, Ontario, Thornton chose a unique way to make his retirement announcement. He did it shirtless, using the San Jose Sharks' social media platforms.

One of the defining moments of his career was winning the Hart Trophy for the 2005-06 season. This achievement holds special significance as it followed a contentious trade.

Originally drafted first overall by the Boston Bruins in 1997, Thornton was traded to the Sharks on November 30, 2005, in a deal that involved Wayne Primeau, Brad Stuart, and Marco Sturm.

During that season, while with the Bruins, Thornton displayed impressive statistics with nine goals, 24 assists, and 33 points in just 23 games.

The move to the Sharks saw him continue his exceptional performance, scoring 20 goals and providing 72 assists for a remarkable total of 92 points in 58 games, ultimately earning him the regular-season MVP honors.