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.