Breaking: Thornton and Pavelski confirm their free agent plans

Today is locker room clean out day at SAP Center for the San Jose Sharks and two legendary Sharks players, captain Joe Pavelski and former captain Joe Thornton, both met with the media to discuss their future.

For Pavelski, it’s clear that he’ll be back, if not with the Sharks at least with another NHL team. He hits unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career and he could be seeking a raise on his $6 million annual salary. The 34 year old put up 38 goals and 64 points this past season and shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. Term will be a sticking point given his age, but Pavelski himself seems confident in a return to San Jose.

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As for Thornton, IF he decides to play next season… and that’s a pretty big if… it won’t be anywhere but San Jose.

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So… Jumbo back on a one year, $1 million deal? Pavelski on a short-term, big money deal? The Sharks also have big deal to negotiate for RFA Timo Meier, as well as UFA deals for Gustav Nyquist, Joonas Donskoi and, of course, Erik Karlsson. 

If the Sharks manage to free up some cap space by signing the two Joes to team friendly deals, does this give them the flexibility to throw top dollar at Karlsson?