from Paul Gackle of the Mercury News,

Whenever Joe Thornton is asked about the latest-hockey legend that he’s passed in the NHL record books, he blushes and expresses humility.

It’s a scene that played out when he eclipsed Mario Lemieux in November, Gordie Howe in February and Stan Mikita in March. While every name on the ladder provides its own dose of modesty, Thornton couldn’t deny that moving into a tie with Steve Yzerman for eighth place on the NHL’s all-time assists list (1,063) on Tuesday was uniquely special.

“He’s the reason why I wear No. 19,” Thornton said. “He’s one of those guys where you grow up idolizing him, and when you meet him, he meets all expectations and plus. It was a good feeling.”

Thornton’s admiration for Yzerman can be traced back to his older brother and agent, John Thornton, who grew up cheering for the Detroit Red Wings. Like most younger siblings, Thornton played the role of copycat with his brother, who’s three years older, so John’s favorite hockey team became his preference, as well. Detroit is roughly 115 miles south of St. Thomas, Ontario, the Thorntons’ hometown, so pulling for Yzerman and the Red Wings came naturally.

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