Celebrini is probably a little way off before he starts to wear a letter for the Sharks, but it seems to be a safe bet that he’ll be the team’s captain one day. When that happens, he’ll have to start to take charge of the room, holding guys accountable while also making sure the team’s culture is where it needs to be – just like Thornton did.

His jersey retirement ceremony Saturday was an opportunity for his former San Jose teammates to dish out the compliments for his play, leadership, and friendship in tributes that repeatedly forced him to wipe away tears on an emotional afternoon.

With his pinpoint passing, infectious joy and signature beard, Joe Thornton became the face of the Sharks franchise and was honored with his No. 19 jersey being raised to the rafters.