In the days following the Boston Marathon bombings, Bruins forward Shawn Thornton was made available to the media at a rate that was more in line with a top-line superstar rather than a fourth-line brawler.
However, when it comes to all things Boston, Thornton is the team’s adopted spokesman. The forward has made the city his new home, taking an active role as a member of the community. He lives in the city year-round where he’s become a familiar face in Charlestown and around the rest of the city.
There’s no denying his love for his adopted home, and he’s not alone in that adoration. That’s part of the reason that Thrornton and the rest of his Bruins teammates have made it something of a mission to help give back to the city after the terrorist attacks by winning hockey games. Now just two wins from another Stanley Cup, it’s tough to argue with how the B’s are doing that job.
“It’s tough to speak for that, but I’m hoping [we can help with the healing], yeah,” he told reporters after Tuesday’s practice. “We come to the rink every day and we love this city. If it helps, then amazing. We’re a pretty tight, good group of guys. If that’s helping, we’re extremely happy that it’s given a little bit.”
Thornton’s love for the city begins with the people, but it doesn’t end there.
“I think it’s part of the makeup of our room to begin with,” Thornton said. “The city, it’s a small, big city. You get to know a lot of people around here when you stick around. There’s a few of us that live here year-round now. There are good people here. Once you get to know people, they’ll do anything for you. So that helps.
“Sam Adams, too, Harpoon. Good beers.”
