Fleury Poised to Reach Milestone in Wild vs. Flames Matchup
39-year-old goalie played 1,000th game, 1 win from tying Roy for 2nd-most in NHL history
Fleury Looking to Achieve Another Milestone
Marc-Andre Fleury recently played in his 1,000th NHL game, but he isn't done making history just yet. The 39-year-old Minnesota Wild goalie is now on the verge of reaching another significant milestone. He is expected to start in the upcoming game against the Calgary Flames and has the opportunity to earn his 551st win.
If Fleury secures the victory, he will tie Patrick Roy for the second-most wins among NHL goalies in history. This impressive achievement is a testament to Fleury's skill and longevity in the league. The game is scheduled for Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted on BSWI, BSN, and SNW.
Fleury's Remarkable Career and Record
Throughout his career, Fleury has proven himself as one of the most accomplished goaltenders in the NHL. Currently in the final season of his two-year, $7 million contract with the Wild, he boasts an impressive record of 550-320-91 with two ties. Fleury has maintained a 2.59 goals-against average, a .912 save percentage, and has recorded 73 shutouts in his 1,000 games played.
Fleury has had stints with various teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks, and now the Minnesota Wild. He earned three Stanley Cup championships with the Penguins in 2009, 2016, and 2017, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier goalie.
Praise from Fellow Players and Hockey Legends
Fleury's remarkable achievements have garnered praise from both current and former players in the NHL. Patrick Roy, another legendary goalie, commended Fleury's approach to the game and his resilience. Roy emphasized Fleury's positive attitude, determination, and his ability to motivate teammates during practice.
Roy's sentiments were echoed by Roberto Luongo, a former NHL goalie himself. Luongo recognized the impact of Quebec's hockey culture and its influence on the success of goalies like Fleury, Roy, and Martin Brodeur. Luongo attributed much of his own success to the innovative butterfly style of goaltending, popularized by Roy and coached by Francois Allaire in Quebec.
Fleury himself has always admired both Roy and Brodeur. As a child playing street hockey, he would often pretend to be one of these two legendary goalies. He admired Roy's Cup wins and his adoption of the butterfly style, while also appreciating Brodeur's unpredictable and versatile play on the ice. These influences have shaped Fleury's own approach to the game.
