NHL Trades and Goalie Availability
In the landscape of NHL trades, the availability of goalies is notably limited, prompting several teams to reflect on their past as they seek options. Marc-Andre Fleury, a former standout goalie who hung up his skates after the 2025 season, has been a name of interest, but he has firmly stated his intention to remain retired.
“I’ve received some inquiries and took some time to contemplate them,” Fleury shared with USA TODAY’s Sports Seriously. “It’s quite flattering that teams think of me, but I stepped away for specific reasons and believe it’s best to remain off the ice now.”
Fleury’s Career and Retirement
Fleury’s illustrious career spanned 21 years and included three Stanley Cup championships, a Vezina Trophy, and the second-highest wins record in NHL history, totaling 575. Since bidding farewell to competitive play, he kept himself busy participating in various activities, including representing Canada at the world championships and playing a brief stint during a preseason match with the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, he is now prioritizing activities beyond hockey, embracing new experiences.
Though he relishes the freedom that retirement affords, Fleury notes that he sometimes longs for the thrill of competition.
“I miss the camaraderie with teammates, the adrenaline of competing, and the joy of winning games,” he remarked.
Yet, he’s occupied his time coaching his 6-year-old and indulging in other pursuits like tennis, race car driving, boxing, and skiing—activities not feasible while under an NHL contract. Fleury has also formed a partnership with Kraft Hockeyville, which aims to bring NHL preseason games to smaller communities and supports rink refurbishments. Occasionally, he dons his goalie gear, as showcased recently by his agent, Allan Walsh, on social media.
Looking Ahead to the Olympics
As NHL players prepare for their long-awaited return to the Olympics, with the last participation having been in 2014, Fleury is keenly following the developments. Hailing from Quebec, he is rooting for Canada but recognizes the competitive strength of teams like the USA and Sweden.
“It’s going to be an exciting display of hockey with many talented squads. The nature of a tournament lends itself to unexpected outcomes, especially when it’s a single knockout game,” he commented.
Reflections on Goalie Duels
Fleury expressed delight at witnessing the recent goalie duel between Sergei Bobrovsky of Florida and Alex Nedeljkovic of San Jose, which marked the first such instance since 2020.
“I think it’s fantastic that they managed to do it without anyone getting hurt. Watching two goalies tussle is always a bit comical given our gear; it’s not something we typically prepare for,” he said.
While he came close to engaging in a fight against St. Louis’ Jordan Binnington in 2023, he admitted he has yet to fulfill his long-standing ambition to have an NHL fight in his career.
“I have no animosity towards Jordan. I’ve always had a desire to score a goal and engage in a fight—quite close to achieving both but fell short,” he remarked.
