Would he be worth pursuing?  A top line of Thornton, Ovechkin and Semin would be a damn good start. 

There's always the idea that we are rebuilding, and I don't know what Thornton is looking for in terms of a contract, but I'd say Thornton would be a great addition to any team.  Any great top line in recent years has had a great passer, a power forward and a sniper.  The A-Line in NJ had Arnott, Elias and Sykora, the Calgary MCI line had McAmmond, Conroy and Iggy, and the Vancouver top line had Morrison, Naslund and Bertuzzi.  Our line would have Thornton (power forward), Semin (sniper) and Ovechkin (great passer/power forward).  All we'd need is the chemistry between them.

Another good point to getting Joe would be that he could mentor Ovechkin as to how to handle all the pressures of being a highly touted #1 pick.

The only thing that worries me is that one of the things I've heard Boston wants in return is defensive prospects.  Can we really afford to give any up?

If the Bruins want Cutta, or Yonkman, I'd say OK. I mean, for Joe Fucking Thornton!

Agree with what you said about what he would bring.

Larry Brooks sez  that Florida might give up Bouwmeester, Weiss, and perhaps Horton to land Thornton.  Now, what is an approximate equivalent the Caps could offer . . .

Next year's first
Alexander Semin
Steve Eminger

...and it still isn't quite as good as Florida's package.   Still like the idea of going down this road?

I doubt seriously that Boston will be shopping Thornton in the first place, as I hear that Larry Brooks was the originator of the rumour in the first place.

I also pretty much realize that there is no way in Hades that the Caps could get Thornton shy of signing him to an offer sheet, and with the market being as hazy as it is, I don't think GMGM will be that crazy to try.

Still, I can dream can't I?

You made me dream for a few minutes too, Chris.  Thanks.