Marc-André Fleury Returns to Pittsburgh
After an illustrious career that saw him secure three Stanley Cup titles with the Pittsburgh Penguins and a Vezina Trophy with the Vegas Golden Knights, Marc-André Fleury is returning to his roots. The veteran goaltender has signed a professional tryout contract with the Penguins and is expected to participate in the team’s preseason matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 27 at PPG Paints Arena.
Practice and Retirement Announcement
Ahead of the game, Fleury will be on the ice for practice on September 26, where it’s anticipated he will also confirm his retirement from professional hockey following this sentimental appearance in Pittsburgh, a city where he built a significant part of his legacy during his first 13 seasons in the NHL.
General Manager’s Statement
Kyle Dubas, the general manager of the Penguins, expressed the organization’s excitement about Fleury’s return: “The entire Penguins organization is honored to welcome Marc-Andre Fleury back to the ice in Pittsburgh. This past year, everyone witnessed how beloved and respected Marc is in the game of hockey. His significance extends beyond his impressive achievements; he has impacted our team, our fans, and the City of Pittsburgh through the person he is and the example he has set. This moment back in front of the black and gold fans is well-deserved for him and his family.”
Career Highlights
Fleury’s departure from the NHL was announced in April 2024, where he shared that the upcoming 2024-25 season would mark his last. Last season, while playing for the Minnesota Wild, he participated in 26 regular-season games and one playoff game, receiving heartfelt farewells from teams and players across the league.
The goaltender, selected as the top pick in the 2003 NHL Draft, boasts an impressive career record of 1,051 regular-season games with 575 wins—ranking him second behind only Martin Brodeur. His 76 shutouts put him tied for the eighth-most in NHL history. Throughout his career, he has been recognized as a four-time All-Star, clinching both the 2020-21 Vezina Trophy as the league’s top goaltender and the William M. Jennings Trophy for allowing the fewest goals.
International Achievements
Fleury has also made significant contributions on the international stage, earning a gold medal with Canada during the 2010 Olympics and securing two silver medals at the IIHF World Junior Championship. As he prepares to step onto the ice once again, the Penguins community and their supporters eagerly await to celebrate his remarkable journey, welcoming back one of their own to where it all began.
