McKenzie on Joe Thornton: 'They're going to trade him anyway'

Rumbles here and there indicate the San Jose Sharks would rather strip captain Joe Thornton of the 'C' on his chest than trade him where little return may be the only option.

Bob McKenzie appeared on TSN 1050 Radio Friday afternoon and explained the Sharks will likely be sending their captain off than ripping stitches off a 'C'.

"I think they're going to trade him anyway or explore that option, stripping him of the 'C', I don't know what that accomplishes. He's a proud guy and I'm sure he wouldn't be thrilled to lose the captaincy."

McKenzie continued to say the problem with trading Thornton would be the return or lack there of, "Who can afford the salary cap hit? I'm not sure if the Sharks will ever be able to justify what the return is or isn't on Thornton... There's got to be some sort of tangible change."

With general manager Doug Wilson and head coach Todd McLellan staying on, the change will likely occur with older, veteran players packing up.

Thornton's three-year, $20.25-million extension includes a no-move clause which could muddy any trade waters.

McKenzie also mentioned if players are getting traded, Patrick Marleau would most likely be in the mix as well. Taking the captaincy away from Thornton would see it be awarded to a younger player like Logan Couture or Joe Pavelski.

Whatever happens, McKenzie expects the talks to ramp up closer to draft time.