NFL
By: Jesse Rosales
In the world of professional ice hockey, few goaltenders have achieved the level of success and admiration that Marc-Andre Fleury has enjoyed throughout his illustrious career. Born on November 28, 1984, in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, Canada, Fleury’s journey from a promising young goaltender to a seasoned veteran is a tale of resilience, skill, and unwavering dedication. He is now closing in on some hallowed ground as far as netminders go. Fleury now has 548 wins, and closing in on the great Patrick Roy’s win total of 551.
Patrick Roy is the main reason I got into hockey back in the mid-90s. As a young kid, I vividly remember the news clippings from the Denver Post when Roy became the winningest goaltender of all time. Since then, Martin Brodeur has taken over that record, but total wins by a goaltender holds a special place in my heart. Marc-Andre Fleury, also known as “Flower”, may not be viewed in some a dominant light as Brodeur and Roy, but there is no way to downplay his achievements through his hall-of-fame career.
Marc-Andre Fleury: Pittsburgh Penguins
Draft first overall in the 2003 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, this is where Marc-Andre Fleury made a name for himself. Those Penguin teams were so talented and he was the backstop of it. He quickly made an impact in the NHL, showcasing his agility, lightning-fast reflexes, and a penchant for making acrobatic saves. He played a pivotal role in transforming the Penguins into a formidable force. During his tenure with Pittsburgh, Fleury backstopped the team to three Stanley Cup championships in 2009, 2016, and 2017, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest goaltenders in franchise history.
I will always think of Fleury as a Penguin, but as we know in professional sports, it is very difficult for a single player to stay with one franchise their entire career. It would be no different for Marc-Andre Fleury.
Marc-Andre Fleury: Vegas Golden Knights
In 2017, the NHL experienced a historic expansion draft with the introduction of the Vegas Golden Knights. Fleury, being left unprotected by the Penguins, was selected by the Knights as their goaltender of choice. This move marked a new chapter in Fleury’s career, and he quickly became the face of the upstart franchise.
Fleury’s impact on the ice went beyond statistics; his leadership and charisma endeared him to fans and teammates alike. In the Knights’ inaugural season, Fleury played an instrumental role in guiding them to the Stanley Cup Final, an achievement that solidified his reputation as a goaltender capable of thriving under pressure regardless of the team he was on.
Marc-Andre Fleury: Chicago Blackhawks/Minnesota Wild
After a quick stint in Chicago, Flower is now in his third year in Minnesota. He has only played in 67 games for the Wild during that time period, but wherever he goes, he continues to bring a one-of-a-kind personality and one-of-a-kind gameplay to the fans. Moments like trash-talking opposing players, willing to fight another goalie, or this shootout stop on rookie sensation Connor Bedard’s first-ever shootout attempt.
As Marc-Andre Fleury continues to add chapters to his storied career, his legacy extends far beyond the saves and championships. His impact on the teams he has played for, his resilience in the face of challenges, and his ability to capture the hearts of fans make him not only a legendary goaltender but a beloved figure in the world of professional hockey. Fleury’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of skill, determination, and love for the game. He will pass Patrick Roy’s total wins, and when he does, I’ll be the first one to tip my cap to the Flower.
