Joe Thornton Signs One-Year Deal in Toronto

Joe Thornton and the Toronto Maple Leafs have agreed on a one-year deal, paying the 41-year-old, $700,000. The move comes after weeks of speculation of 'mutual interest' existing for both sides.

Thornton, who is currently playing for HC Davos in Switzerland, will live out his childhood dream playing for the Leafs, and is expected to see time on their third and fourth lines and 2nd Power-Play unit. While Thornton may not have the legs he once did, his vision and elite passing abilities still make him a factor in the league.

Joe Thornton's contract with the #leafs includes no 35-plus performance bonuses. He signed just for the league minimum salary: $700,000.

Big help for Toronto's cap situation.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 16, 2020

The Leafs went hard after Thornton, including having their core players make phone calls and reach out to 'Jumbo Joe' to do their part to try and convince him to sign. It appears to have worked.

Given Thornton's best-buddy Patrick Marleau's positive experience in Toronto, it's likely the two have discussed what it's like to play in the fish bowl, with a bright young core.

Look for Thornton to improve on his 31 points from last season with a touch more ice time and power play minutes. This low-risk, high-reward move is the perfect deal for the Leafs as they try and manage a life with financial constraints.

Jumbo Joe is a Maple Leaf.