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Minnesota Wild's Marc-Andre Fleury Celebrates Historic Win Against Pittsburgh Penguins

Braden Hirschi

By Braden Hirschi

Published February 10, 2024

In a thrilling game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Marc-Andre Fleury, the goaltender for the Minnesota Wild, secured his 553rd career win, surpassing Patrick Roy's 551 wins to claim the second spot in NHL history. The Wild's 3-2 victory was highlighted by Fleury's outstanding performance, making 32 saves and showcasing his undeniable impact on the game.

Honoring Fleury

The Wild paid a heartfelt tribute to Fleury's remarkable achievement with a pregame ceremony, acknowledging his monumental milestone. The team displayed a video tribute in honor of Fleury, recognizing his exceptional career and contributions to the sport. Additionally, Fleury was presented with a silver engraved stick commemorating his 1,000 games played, a $5,000 donation to a charity of his choice, and a special souvenir mask representing each of the four teams he has played for.

Emotional Reflections

Amid the celebratory atmosphere, Fleury expressed his gratitude and emotions, stating, 'I'm happy it's over... I feel like I've gotten softer and softer with the years and then seeing my kids on the ice and on the jumbotron talking, too, old teammates. I don't know, it gets me.' His poignant reflections shed light on the personal significance of this remarkable milestone and the impact it has had on his life and career.

Praise from Teammates

Fleury's teammates and opponents alike recognized his exceptional performance and celebrated his historic achievement. Wild coach John Hynes commended Fleury's pivotal role in the game, emphasizing the impact of his stellar goaltending on the team's success. Additionally, Penguins captain Sidney Crosby acknowledged Fleury's outstanding performance, stating, 'He made some big saves. I thought they did a great job recognizing what he's accomplished. It was great to be a part of that, but you still want to have the bragging rights at the end of the night.'

Fleury's Impact on the Game

Fleury's presence on the ice was truly impactful, as he demonstrated resilience and skill in the face of formidable opponents. With the support of his team and the resounding chants of 'Fleury' from the fans, he displayed unwavering determination and played a pivotal role in securing the Wild's victory. His exceptional performance and milestone victory have solidified his status as a legendary figure in the NHL.