Here's Why Joe Thornton Signed With the Maple Leafs

Joe Thornton is currently playing meaningful hockey games in Switzerland (for free btw), while he awaits to hear about when exactly the next NHL season will begin. What we do know, is Thornton is heading to Toronto when the season starts, as the Maple Leafs and Thornton announced a one-year deal last week.

Here's why 'Jumbo' Joe Thornton decided to sign with Toronto, as the 41-year-old veteran met with the media to discuss:

It was probably the hardest hockey decision I've ever had to make, but I truly believe Toronto, with the roster they have with the guys they picked up this offseason, I think this team is ready to win now. I'm ready to win. I'm just excited. I'm coming to be a Maple Leaf. My parents are right there about an hour away or 40 minutes away. But, really, it's because of the hockey team, honestly. This team is as very, very good team. I didn't win a Stanley Cup and I think this is a great team that can do that. There's a couple of things that helped along the way, but I really, really like this team. I love the organization. It was a little bit family but mostly hockey

Are the Maple Leafs ready to 'win now' considering they haven't won a playoff series is almost two decades? Time will tell. What we do know is, make sure to put some respect on Joe Thornton's name. The newest member of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Noticing a lot of “Joe Thornton is old” jokes. Please keep in mind:

He’s the only guy to win both the Hart and Art Ross in the same season he was traded.
He won two World Cups of Hockey.
He won Olympic Gold.
He’s going to the Hall of Fame.

Put some respect on his name please.
— Sid Seixeiro (@Sid_Seixeiro) October 16, 2020