Apr 26, 2014; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton (19) controls the puck against the Los Angeles Kings during the first period in game five of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Blackhawks have been plagued over the last several seasons by the lack of a second line center. The San Jose Sharks have been regular season powerhouses the last several years, but always fall very short in the playoffs. Rumors have surfaced now that Joe Thornton would be willing to waive his no trade clause to leave San Jose. Thornton’s agent released a statement saying he would be willing to leave if he felt the fans did not want him.

If Sharks fans do not want Thornton, Blackhawks fans would welcome him with open arms. Thornton would solve the second line center debate for the foreseeable future. Thornton is a Hart trophy and Art Ross Trophy winner. Thornton is known for his passing ability, he has averaged 50 assists a season for his career. Thornton would also give the Blackhawks size on the second line. Thornton stand at 6’4 and weighs in at 220lbs.

The scouting report on Thornton is very good. According to the Hockey News Thornton possess “great on-ice vision and creates numerous scoring chances for his lines mates. He has terrific size, strength, and control with the puck. He is also good defensively”. The Hockey News states his career potential currently is: an excellent veteran playmaking center. For his career Thornton has 342 goals and 852 assist in 17 years.

Not everything with Thornton and the Blackhawks is rosy and great. Thornton is 34 years old and has been in the league since he was 18. Will Thornton have the speed to keep up with the Blackhawks? Is he really not clutch?? The other major question is what do the Blackhawks have to give up to get Thornton? Do the Blackhawks have to trade Nick Leddy and some picks? Is it Patrick Sharp and some picks? Is it just prospects like Joakim Nordstrom and Jeremy Morin?

These are just some of the questions facing the Blackhawks. Would the Blackhawks like Joe Thornton? The answer is yes. The important question is: Are the Blackhawks willing to pay for him?

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