San Jose Sharks: Grades for forwards to start the 2013-14 NHL season

Joe Thornton

Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

2013-14 Season Stats: 6 GP, 1 G, 8 A, plus-9

Analysis: It took Jumbo Joe a little while to net his first goal, but he’s always been a passer first. While Tomas Hertl has received most of the love on San Jose’s top line, Thornton has been instrumental in that group’s incredible success. His ability to draw defenders to him is evident on every shift.

This creates room for Hertl to work, and for Burns to set up for the incredible shot from down low. The passes have been crisp, he’s among the league leaders in points, and it’s tough to imagine a batter start for Thornton.

Grade: A+