Panthers' Joe Thornton: Returning Tuesday

Thornton (undisclosed) will be activated from injured reserve and play Tuesday in San Jose, George Richards of Panthers Press Box reports.

With just six points in 24 games, the 42-year-old isn't exactly a fantasy darling these days, but the fact he's returning from a 13-game absence to face his old team in his old arena Tuesday is headline material. Thornton skated in the top-line right-wing spot at morning skate, so expect him to at least start in a top-six role against the Sharks.