San Jose Sharks legend Joe Thornton officially retired from the NHL yesterday, and his mark is still being felt on today's Sharks team.

The San Jose Sharks traded for Joe Thornton during the 2005-06 season and changed the franchise forever.

Thornton's effect is still felt today as he is constantly around the rink despite not being officially part of the organization.

Tomas Hertl was on the same line as Jumbo during his first season.

"I was really lucky that I could start my career with him," Hertl said. "My first NHL game was with him in the middle."

Hertl also said he still remembers the first time he met Thornton.

"I think it was before the game. I was sitting on the bike at the gym, and he sat next to me." Hertl said. "I just looked, and it was Joe Thronton! I was almost shaking, and I was just sitting next to him."

Thornton's goofy mood and easygoing personality rubbed off on the team. Hertl was smiling the entire time he spoke about Jumbo.

Although he was having fun, Thornton's work ethic couldn't be argued. 

"One of the hardest working guys," Hertl said. "[He was] always at the gym. Always getting ready for the game. I don't think anybody loved to be around the locker room [more than him]."

Marc-Edouard Vlasic had the pleasure of playing with Thronton for 14 years. Vlasic was drafted the same year that the Sharks acquired Thornton. 

"I didn't really watch much of the Sharks because the games were so late, but in 2006, I played with Jumbo, and he changed [the franchise] quite a bit," Vlasic said. "I mean, before, I don't know if people were coming to watch the Sharks play, but it was packed when I came in 2006. Joe was a big deal."

As for when Vlasic first met Jumbo:

"That's a long time ago," Vlasic said. "Quite a character. Funny guy and very outgoing. Big goofball. That's what I remember [from] my 10-plus years playing with him. Very nice human being to everyone, and  a very good player."

Head coach David Quinn confirmed there was no possibility of him playing another season or having some role within the organization.

"That ain't happening. I asked him that during our conversation," Quinn said.

Jumbo's impact on the San Jose Sharks organization on every level will be forever. Fans throughout the community said thank you on social media and have been reminiscing on their favorite Joe Thornton moments. 

Make sure you bookmark THN's San Jose Sharks site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

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