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Stars' Joe Pavelski receives deafening ovation in return to San Jose

The former Sharks captain returned to San Jose for the first time since signing with Dallas in the off-season. (Getty Images/Kavin Mistry)
The former Sharks captain returned to San Jose for the first time since signing with Dallas in the off-season. (Getty Images/Kavin Mistry)

Joe Pavelski spent his last 13 years in San Jose since making his NHL debut with the Sharks in 2006. On Saturday night, he visited SAP Center for the first time since signing with the Dallas Stars this summer and was welcomed with deafening applause.

As mentioned by the broadcast, these recognitions usually take place during a stoppage in play in the first period, but the Sharks felt they had to honour their former captain before puck drop.

The video tribute featured the significant highlights of his career as a Shark, showcasing a handful of his 355 goals and his 134 playoff appearances with the franchise.

Through the 963 games he played for the team that selected him in the seventh round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Pavelski collected 761 points.

The 35-year-old forward has scored eight goals and 18 points in 44 games for the Stars this season. Pavelski signed a three-year, $21-million contract with Dallas last summer.

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