Marc-Andre Fleury, the renowned Minnesota Wild goalie, recently made history at Rogers Place. In a thrilling 5-3 win against the Edmonton Oilers, Fleury not only played his 1,030th NHL game but also moved into third place on the list of games played by an NHL goalie. This remarkable feat showcases his longevity and skill in the league. Fleury's NHL Legacy: From Rookie to Record Breaker
Early Days and Inspirations
Growing up in Quebec, Fleury watched Patrick Roy play for the Montreal Canadiens. Little did he know that he would one day surpass Roy in games played. Selected No. 1 by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2003, Fleury embarked on a remarkable career that has seen him play in 21 seasons, likely his final one in the NHL. His journey from a young aspiring goalie to a hockey legend is truly inspiring. 2: Fleury's early years with the Penguins were filled with success. He helped the team win the Stanley Cup three times (2009, 2016, 2017), establishing himself as one of the best goalies in the league. His performances on the ice earned him the respect and admiration of fans and teammates alike.
Trades and New Beginnings
In 2017, Fleury was left unprotected in the NHL Expansion Draft and was selected by the Vegas Golden Knights. There, he led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in his first four seasons, playing 192 games and winning the Vezina Trophy as the League's best goalie in 2020-21. After a season with the Chicago Blackhawks, he was traded to the Minnesota Wild in March 2022. 2: Fleury's ability to adapt to different teams and situations is a testament to his talent. His presence in the Wild locker room has had a positive impact on his teammates, as witnessed by the words of Wild forward Marcus Johansson. Johansson praised Fleury's attitude and leadership, stating that he makes everyone better with his competitive spirit.
Recent Game and Memorable Moments
In the recent game against the Edmonton Oilers, Fleury had a rough start. Just 27 seconds into the game, he let in a goal that he would later joke about. However, Fleury quickly shook off the bad goal and had some fun with the fans after making a key save. His laid-back approach and sense of humor endeared him to his teammates and the hockey community. 2: Fleury's performance in the game didn't end there. He made an old-school poke check on Oilers captain Connor McDavid on a breakaway in the second period, keeping the Wild in the lead. His ability to make crucial saves and keep his team in the game is a testament to his skill and experience.
NHL Career Statistics
With an NHL career record of 565-330-95, two ties, a 2.60 goals-against-average, and a.912 save percentage, Fleury's impact on the league is undeniable. His 75 shutouts are a testament to his ability to stop pucks and keep his team in the game. 2: Fleury's career statistics are a reflection of his consistency and excellence over the years. He has been a key player for the teams he has been a part of, and his legacy in the NHL will continue to inspire future generations of goalies.
