Joe Thornton underwent successful knee surgery and will be ready to go for the 2017-18 NHL season according to the San Jose Sharks. The latter bit of news is of particular interest after learning he tore both his MCL and ACL, neither of which are minor injuries particular given the forward’s age.

Thornton is an unrestricted free agent and his future with the Sharks is anything but certain at this point. He played very well considering the severity of his injury, but the grind of an 82-game season adds uncertainty to his future with Team Teal. At this point it’s a waiting game. I don’t expect anything will happen until after the Vegas Golden Knights complete their expansion draft.

Most importantly, I’m glad Thornton’s surgery went well and that he’ll be good to go for next season, no matter what team he suits up for. His health is more important than the color of the jersey he’s going to wear next October.