Shirtless Joe Thornton sends message to Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini after breaking his franchise record

Apr 17, 2026 - 18:00

The San Jose Sharks just finished the 2025-26 NHL season with a 38-35-8 record, finishing with 84 points. Macklin Celebrini set a franchise record for points in a season, passing Joe Thornton. After the accomplishment, Thornton sent a message to the young star, congratulating him in the only way he could.

I believe Thornton isn't wearing a shirt as per usual but I'm not 100 percent sure because the beard is covering most of his chest https://t.co/mJx7KnI7Ri
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) April 17, 2026

Celebrini finished the 2025-26 season with 45 goals, 70 assists, and 115 total points. That was one more than the 114 that Thornton had in the 2006-07 season. Thornton was ecstatic with Celebrini and what he accomplished this season. The young star did everything well, as he helped power the Sharks into playoff contention for the majority of the season.

It’s been an electric two seasons for Celebrini, who has given the Sharks new life and hope for their future. After netting 63 points in his rookie season, he took a major step in his development. Celebrini is already one of the best players in the NHL and is still just 19 years old. Now, he will get a chance to continue that development and get the Sharks back into contention.

Thornton was on the Sharks when they last made the Stanley Cup Playoffs, in the 2018-19 season. While they did not make it this season, there is renewed optimism in San Jose, thanks in part to Celebrini. The young star is the clear leader of this team, while others, such as Will Smith and Michael Misa, will emerge as young stars in this league.

There will be plenty of decisions for the Sharks to make this offseason. Ultimately, creating a contender around Celebrini will be the top focus as they attempt to end a playoff drought and become a contender once again.

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