There was a lot to take away from San Jose’s 6-3 win over St. Louis on Monday night, but in the third period Joe Thornton took over and once again showed how effective a player he still is. He scored a pair of goals in the third period, one of which was a backhand, no-look empty net goal from all the way at the other end of the ice.
That second goal got him to four points on the night — two goals and two assists. While Thornton has made a name for himself as an assist guy in recent years, this isn’t the first time he’s shown he can both pass and score since joining the Sharks. Monday’s game marks Thornton’s fourth game where he scored at least two goals and had at least two assists; he has had 104 games where he had at least one goal and an assist.
So let’s take a step back through memory lane at some of Thornton’s more diverse performances. As always, we’ll keep praying for a four-goal game one of these days. Thanks to Hockey-Reference for the list.
Sharks vs. Blues, Feb. 22, 2016
Sharks vs. Devils, Oct. 27, 2010 (Our Story)
Sharks vs. Ducks, Dec. 17, 2009 (Our Story)
Sharks vs. Canadiens, March 3, 2008 (Our Story)
Some other Thornton facts and figures.
- Last night was Thornton’s 19th four-point game as a member of the Sharks.
- Thornton has now scored more points than anyone else in the NHL since Dec. 15.
- In 20 fewer games (58 this season) Thornton has matched his even strength points total from last season (31).
- Thornton is hitting 2.3 points per 60 minutes at even strength — that’s his best since the 2013-14 season (2.4). Before that season, it’s his best since the 2009-10 season.
- He’s now 33rd in the all-time points list with 1,314. He’s just 16 points away from moving up to 32nd. /
We love you Jumbo.
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