SUNRISE, Fla. – Florida Panthers Executive Vice President and General Manager Dale Tallon announced today that the Panthers have agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with forward Shawn Thornton . As per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

“We are pleased to have Shawn return for another season,” Panthers Owner, Chairman & Governor Vinnie Viola said. “Shawn is the embodiment of the selfless, team-first culture we are trying to create on and off the ice with the Florida Panthers and has made himself an important part of the South Florida community. We look forward to having this man of character as a leader within our organization for many years to come.”

The 38-year old Thornton has played in 35 games this season with Florida recording three points (1-2-3) and 50 PIM.

“Shawn is a highly respected and hardworking member of our hockey club, both on and off the ice,” Tallon said. “His experience and leadership have made a positive impact on our locker room and on our young players as they continue their development.”

The 6-foot-2, 217-pound native of Oshawa, Ontario has played in 640 career NHL games with Florida (2014-16), Boston (2007-2014), Anaheim (2006-2007) and Chicago (2002-2006) recording 40-56-96 and 1,006 PIM. A two-time Stanley Cup Champion (Anaheim – 2007 and Boston – 2011), Thornton has played in 101 NHL playoff games registering seven points (1-6-7) and 81 PIM.

“Shawn is a true professional,” Panthers head coach Gerard Gallant said. “He is an important voice on our team and is a welcoming presence in the dressing room. He’s a veteran player that knows what it takes to win. I’m very pleased to have him back for another year.”

Thornton was originally selected by Toronto in the seventh round (190 overall) of the 1997 NHL Draft.

The Panthers host the Arizona Coyotes tonight at the BB&T Center at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information call (954) 835-PUCK (7825) or visit FloridaPanthers.com/TicketCentral.