Known for his unique approach, Joe Thornton has always stood out both on and off the ice. The charismatic and talented forward, nicknamed “Jumbo Joe,” entered the NHL at 18 and has now earned a well-deserved spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Thornton, along with Zdeno Chara, Duncan Keith, Alexander Mogilny, Jennifer Botterill, and Brianna Decker, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2025. Jack Parker and Danièle Sauvageau were also honored as builders.
Originally drafted by the Boston Bruins in 1997, Thornton truly made his mark after joining the San Jose Sharks. During his 14-year tenure in California, he claimed the scoring title and Hart Trophy in 2005-06, becoming only the third player to lead the NHL in assists for three consecutive seasons.
In an emotional speech, Thornton reminisced about his lifelong dedication to hockey, highlighting his achievements with the Sharks, including leading the team in scoring eight times and reaching the Stanley Cup final in 2016.
With a remarkable career spanning 24 NHL seasons, Thornton accumulated 1,539 points in 1,714 regular-season games. His accomplishments place him 12th in all-time scoring, 7th in assists, and 6th in games played. Even after his time with the Sharks, Thornton had brief stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers.
Zdeno Chara, on the other hand, began his journey with the New York Islanders in 1996 before finding success with the Boston Bruins, where he played 14 seasons as captain. Chara, a towering presence at six-foot-nine, was pivotal in the Bruins’ Stanley Cup win in 2011 and subsequent final appearances.
Chara, a trailblazer from Slovakia
As the second European captain to lift the Stanley Cup, Chara’s career was marked by excellence, including winning the Norris Trophy in 2009. After his time in Boston, Chara continued his legacy with the Washington Capitals before rejoining the Islanders.
Duncan Keith, a Winnipeg native, enjoyed a successful tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks, winning the Cup three times and earning multiple accolades, including the Norris Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy. Keith also claimed Olympic gold with Team Canada in 2010 and 2014 before concluding his career with the Edmonton Oilers in 2022.
Jennifer Botterill, a decorated Olympian, represented Canada at four Olympics, securing multiple gold and silver medals. Her illustrious career included numerous championship victories and personal accolades, demonstrating her dedication and passion for the sport.
Brianna Decker, a standout forward from Wisconsin, achieved success at the 2018 Olympics and multiple world championships. Decker expressed gratitude for the friendships and memories that hockey has provided her, underscoring the honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Danièle Sauvageau’s remarkable journey
Danièle Sauvageau, the first female builder in the Hall of Fame, has had a storied career in hockey, including managing Canada’s Olympic teams and leading the country to gold in 2002. Sauvageau’s inspiring journey from small-town beginnings to international success reflects her unwavering dedication to the sport.
Lastly, Jack Parker, a renowned coach from Boston, achieved great success with Boston University’s men’s program, winning three national championships and earning multiple coaching honors. Alexander Mogilny, known for his impressive career and record-breaking achievements, was also celebrated for his contributions to the sport.