Patrick Marleau made NHL history on Monday when he skated in his 1,768th game, surpassing Gordie Howe to become the NHL's all-time games played leader.
Of his 1,768 NHL games, Marleau played 1,596 with the Sharks, eight with the Penguins and 164 with the Maple Leafs. And, as anyone around the game knows, he left his mark in Toronto, taking young stars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner under his wing. So as accolades and congratulatory messages poured in across social media for the 41-year-old veteran, the duo sent Marleau their love too.
The Sharks posted the video from the pair — which also came with a surprise cameo from Marleau's ex-teammate of 12 years (and 75 days his senior), Joe Thornton.
MARLEAU 1,768: Ex-teammates reflect on beginning | Grammatically incorrect gloves
"Hey Patty, just want to congratulate you on amazing milestones and accomplishments," Matthews says to start the video. "I know myself and Mitchie, a huge honor and privilege to get to know you and play with you for two years and build an amazing friendship."
"We want to thank you for lending us Joe. He's been a constant pro with us the whole time with us as well," adds Marner, as a naked Thornton strolls through the doorway. (Don't worry, things are blurred out).
"Another father figure," Marner said. "Want to congratulate you on this accomplishment and have fun with your family pal."
It's hard to tell if anyone has a straight face as they're all wearing masks, per NHL protocol, but here's the video:
What a league! 🤣#HistoryMarleaud pic.twitter.com/ck0RLfQ9A7
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) April 20, 2021