PITTSBURGH – A Heartfelt Return
In a heartfelt and nostalgic evening, Marc-Andre Fleury completed his legacy with the Pittsburgh Penguins during a 4-1 preseason victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, playing the third period and stopping all eight shots that came his way. Although he officially hung up his skates after the previous NHL season as a member of the Minnesota Wild, the 40-year-old goaltender made a special return by signing a ceremonial professional tryout contract to reunite with former teammates and friends, encapsulating a remarkable 21-year journey that launched in Pittsburgh.
Fleury’s Extraordinary Career
Fleury’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. With an impressive total of 575 wins, he ranks second in NHL history, only behind Martin Brodeur. Throughout his career, he has appeared in 1,051 regular-season games and recorded 76 shutouts, tying him for tenth in league history. The three-time Stanley Cup champion is most identified with his years in Pittsburgh, where he set numerous goaltending records, including career games played (691), wins (375), and playoff shutouts (10).
A Night to Honor Fleury
The evening was clearly dedicated to honoring Fleury, who had donned his iconic bright yellow pads and a specially crafted mask to celebrate the significance of the night. After a Friday practice with the team, he chose to take the ice for the last period, aiming to close his Pittsburgh chapter with a win.
As the third period commenced, the sold-out crowd erupted in cheers, greeting Fleury with a standing ovation as he skated onto the ice. The arena buzzed with chants of “Fle-ury” and even pleas for “One More Year,” showing the fans’ unwavering appreciation.
Each time he made a save against players like Hudson Fasching and Cole Sillinger, the crowd’s enthusiasm soared. With just two minutes left, the spectators expressed their gratitude, chanting, “Thank You Fleury.” Once the final buzzer rang, star players Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang shared an emotional embrace in honor of their long-time teammate at the crease.
Fleury’s Impact on the Penguins
Fleury spent 13 seasons establishing himself as a core component of the Penguins, contributing to their championships in 2009, 2016, and 2017. He was selected first overall by Pittsburgh in the 2003 draft during a tumultuous chapter when the franchise faced threats of relocation. His presence not only solidified Pittsburgh’s standing but also helped shape it into a significant name in the NHL.
One of Fleury’s most memorable performances came during Game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Final against the Detroit Red Wings, where he executed a stunning last-second save that sealed the victory and secured yet another championship for the franchise.
Fans Celebrate a Legend
Prior to the match, fans gathered in droves behind the Penguins’ net, eager to catch a glimpse of Fleury during his final warmup. Many sported his No. 29 jersey and carried homemade signs expressing their love and admiration for the beloved goaltender, while he engaged with the crowd by tossing pucks over the glass, a fitting end to a legendary career with the Penguins.
