Florida Panthers' Joe Thornton undecided on return for 25th season

SUNRISE, Fla. — Joe Thornton's career might be over. Or not.

The veteran center, who just completed his 24th season in the NHL and first with the Florida Panthers, said Wednesday that he has not decided whether to retire or continue playing.

«My wife was kind of asking me last night,» Thornton said. «And really, I have no plans. It's kind of exciting that way. I came here to win a championship, and we fell short of that. But I think the Florida Panthers are going to be good for a long time. It's exciting around here now.»

The question is whether Thornton will be part of that excitement going forward.

Thornton, who turns 43 on July 2, was the second-oldest skater to appear in a game this season; New York Islanders defenseman Zdeno Chara turned 45 in March and like Thornton just completed his 24th season in the league.

They were two of four players in their 40s who got into games this season. Buffalo Sabres goalie Craig Anderson was a month shy of turning 41 when he made his final appearance of the season, and Edmonton Oilers goalie Mike Smith turned 40 in March.

«I've been privileged to play this game for a long time,» Thornton said. «I don't take anything for granted.»

Longtime San Jose Sharks running mate Patrick Marleau announced his retirement this month after playing 23 seasons in the NHL. Marleau broke Gordie Howe's games played record and retired having played 1,779 in the regular season during his career.

Thornton has played 1,714 games — sixth most in regular-season history — with San Jose, Boston, Toronto and Florida. He recently joked he would let Marleau keep his place in the history books.

Thornton appeared in 34 games with the Panthers this season, scoring five goals and adding five assists.

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