Panthers' Thornton credits long career on 'being able to contribute 4 ways'
The Florida Panthers signed former Bruins bruiser Shawn Thornton to a two-year, $1.2-million contract back on July 1. With career highs of 20 points and 154 penalty minutes to his credit, there's no doubting his game is more about pugilism than offensive production.
But while other noted role players struggle to find work in the NHL, Thornton believes he was able to sign a new contract because he has put in the work necessary to be effective in all aspects of the game.
Thornton on why he thinks he's had such a long career: "I take pride in conditioning.Being able to contribute 4 ways.Smart defensively (1/2)
— Panther Parkway (@PantherParkway) July 31, 2014
good positionally. Everyone once in awhile I surprise people with some skill. A couple of Stanley Cups doesn't hurt either." (2/2)
— Panther Parkway (@PantherParkway) July 31, 2014
Furthermore, Thornton makes a clear distinction between those whose mandate is to fight, and those who are called upon to rile up the opposition:
Thornton believes being an enforcer & agitator are 2 different things. Usually he is the one who has to clean up the mess. #FlaPanthers
— Francisco Oporta (@FJOJR) July 31, 2014
One of those gigantic messes occurred last season in a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, resulting in a 15-game suspension. The incident, for him, is now well in the past.
Thornton has moved on from the incident involving Brooks Orpik. Shouldn't have done it but has served his time & paid for it. #FlaPanthers
— Francisco Oporta (@FJOJR) July 31, 2014
Finally, Thornton declared Florida as his "first choice" in regards to a new NHL home when it became apparent that the Bruins were going to let him leave as an unrestricted free agent.
In 559 career games, Thornton recorded 38 goals, 50 assists, and 906 penalty minutes.