Marc-Andre Fleury Has Emotional Final Goodbye to Pittsburgh Penguins

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Liam McCormick
October 29, 2024 (8:27 PM)

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Now in his final year before retirement, Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fluery had an emotional final goodbye during his last game in Pittsburgh tonight.

With 26 saves on 29 shots, Fleury was named a sort of honorary first star after the game, allowing him a moment with Penguins fans that he played in front of for 13 seasons. Fleury was interviewed on the ice in front of Penguins fans, giving him the chance to say goodbye.

»It's tough to put into words. This was my second home for a long time, we had so many great memories, so many great people in the locker room throughout the years. The fans obviously, right? I feel very fortunate. Thank you.»

For a goalie that's famously outgoing and happy go lucky, Fleury's address to the crowd carried some real emotional weight. At one point while thanking the crowd, he looked to nearly break into tears.

While Fleury may not be at the top of his game anymore, he's a truly special goaltender that the NHL will likely never see again. Fleury has started 1028 games, which will never be passed by another goalie, won three Stanley Cups in Pittsburgh, and finally won his Vezina Trophy in 2020-21. Fleury has the talent and the longevity to put himself in consideration for one of the greatest goalies in NHL history.

The NHL should be appreciative of Fleury while he's still around in his final season, and it looks like the Wild are doing it right. No matter the circumstances for Minnesota, Fluery playing his final game in Pittsburgh to allow this moment will be treasured by hockey fans. The Flower will be dearly missed after this year.