Patrick Marleau Explains Why He's So Thrilled to Return to Sharks

Patrick Marleau is back where he belongs.

His nickname, "Mr. Shark," is part of what adds to the emotions behind the veteran's return to San Jose. 

Marleau woke up Tuesday morning to a phone filled with text messages. His agent called him and told him to wait for a follow-up call. Ten minutes later, he was a Shark again.

"Obviously the emotions just went everywhere and just thinking about putting that jersey back on just gets me emotional," Marleau told NBC Sports California's Jamie Baker. "I just couldn't be happier."

Marleau spent the first 19 of his 21-year career in San Jose, before spending the last two with the Toronto Maple Leafs. But it's fitting that he returns for Year 22 wearing a teal sweater.

The Sharks' all-time points leader scorer not only is happy to be back where it all started, but he's also looking forward to immediately contributing to the struggling team as well. 

"I just want to get off to good start," Marleau added.

Baker said it beautifully. This isn't a comeback by any means for the 40-year-old, but a welcome back. And with the Sharks sitting at 0-4-0, the team needs him.

[RELATED: Marleau-Thornton reunion could be boost Sharks need]

So what are Marleau's goals for this upcoming season after knowing he could walk away right this moment, still as one of the greatest Sharks of all time?

"Just to get my game going in the right direction again I think," he said. "I can still skate, I can still play so I just need to take advantage of the opportunities I'm given. I'm playing with a great bunch of players as well is going to help out. The coaching staff here understands my game and they've always put me in the position to succeed so it's up to me to put in the work and take advantage of that opportunity."

Marleau's ultimate goal hasn't wavered: To win the Stanley Cup. That has never changed across his 21-year-career, and won't change now.

Copyright C
Contact Us