Shawn Thornton Positively Reflects on Career in Boston

Feb 8, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins right wing Shawn Thornton (22) skates with the puck during the third period against the Ottawa Senators at TD Banknorth Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Shawn Thornton Relished Time as Bruin

Bruins forward Shawn Thornton loves the city of Boston and the Bruins organization, but unfortunately, professional sports entail a business aspect, one that can sometimes put aside personal wishes for the betterment of the team.

And as many B’s fans have heard today, Thornton, who spent seven years with the Black and Gold, will not be granted a contract renewal. The 36-year-old will become an unrestricted free agent when NHL free agency opens on July 1.

This move wasn’t random, though. After the Bruins were clearly exposed by the speed of the Montreal Canadiens, Peter Chiarelli was rumored to part ways with the bruiser, hoping to put the “Big, Bad, Bruin” attitude in a different direction.

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Thornton was unsure of his status following the season’s disappointing playoff conclusion.

“I kind of put it at a coin flip over the last month as to whether I was coming back or not, so I had kind of talked myself into being prepared for either situation,” said Thornton, via CSNEE’s Joe Haggerty.

“My first thought is that I was very fortunate. I had a very good seven years. From the first day when Cam (Kneely) called me to tell me how much of good fit I’d be for this town and this town would be for me, to the last day with Peter telling me face-to-face to give me a heads up, it’s been first class.

Thornton continued on, making it known that he truly enjoyed his time in Beantown.

“I was very, very lucky to be a member of this organization, and be a part of this city too. We loved it here. It’s been amazing. It couldn’t have been any better. From the people [in Boston] to the style that the team played, everything was above and beyond what I could have expected.”