Auston Matthews Pays Tribute to Joe Thornton Ahead of Hall-Of-Fame Game

Although 'Jumbo' Joe Thornton only played in one season with the Leafs, he continues to have an influence over those that remain with the team since he retired.

Brought in to mentor Matthews, William Nylander and Mitch Marner, the 'larger than life', soon-to-be Hall-of-Famer was unable to help lead them to a Stanley Cup, but certainly left lasting presence.

Marner spent time with Thornton this past summer, while Matthews invited the former first-overall pick on the Leafs' mentor trip last season. As for Nylander, his inspiration for his shirtless interviews was Thornton.

Despite not capturing a Stanley Cup, Thornton accomplished everything else an NHLer could think of. While he is known as one of the best passers to ever play in the NHL, it was his personality that made him loved by his teammates and media.

From signing a contract on his lawn mower in St. Thomas, Ontario, to announcing his retirement by conducting his own shirtless interview, Thornton was never shy about showing his personality.

As he did during the Blue Jays' World Series run, dawning Vladimir Guerrero Jr. jerseys, Matthews entered the arena ahead of Sunday's game against the Carolina Hurricanes in. Thornton Leafs jersey.

Ahead of tonight's game, the Leafs will honour each of the members of the 2025 Hall-of-Fame class with a ceremony. Aside from former Leafs forward Alexander Mogilny, who is unfortunately unable to attend in person, Thornton should receive the loudest ovation from Leafs Nation.