Family First:: Fleury's three children, Estelle, Scarlette, and James, joined him on the ice, wearing his jersey, before the Wild's game against the San Jose Sharks.
Emotional Send-off:: The children were visibly emotional as their father left the ice after the game, highlighting the significance of the moment.
Inspiration:: Fleury was inspired by former Penguins teammate Pascal Dupuis, who had a similar pre-game moment with his children in 2015.
End of an Era:: The event underscores Fleury's impending retirement after a 21-year career spanning the Penguins, Golden Knights, Blackhawks, and Wild, including three Stanley Cup wins.
Peer Respect:: Canucks coach Rick Tocchet, who coached Fleury in Pittsburgh, lauded him as the 'ultimate team guy' and recalled his crucial performance in a Game 7 playoff win against Washington.
Why this matters:: This event signifies the closing chapter for one of hockey's most beloved and successful goaltenders, celebrated by family, fans, and peers alike.
In what was anticipated to be his final home start at Xcel Energy Center, Marc-André Fleury created a lasting memory by having his children, Estelle, Scarlette, and James, join him on the ice. Dressed in matching No. 29 Wild jerseys and helmets, they stood beside their father during the starting lineup announcements and the national anthem before the Wild faced the San Jose Sharks. Fleury mentioned he requested their presence, inspired by a similar gesture from former teammate Pascal Dupuis, wanting to create a special memory for his family.
Fleury, set to retire at season's end, concludes a remarkable 21-year NHL journey. His career includes 13 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins (winning Stanley Cups in 2009, 2016, 2017), four with the Vegas Golden Knights, one with the Chicago Blackhawks, and four with the Minnesota Wild. Teams across the league have honored Fleury throughout the season, acknowledging his contributions to the sport.
Vancouver Canucks Head Coach Rick Tocchet, who won two Stanley Cups with Fleury as part of the Penguins' coaching staff, shared high praise. "One of my favorite guys... When you talk about a team guy, he's the ultimate team guy," Tocchet stated, highlighting Fleury's selflessness and positive attitude. Tocchet specifically recalled Fleury's stellar performance in Game 7 of the 2017 second-round series against the Washington Capitals, crediting the goalie's saves in the first period as pivotal to the Penguins' eventual series win. Fleury's impact extends beyond statistics, earning deep respect throughout the hockey community.
Why were Marc-André Fleury's kids on the ice with him?
Fleury had his children join him before his likely last career home game to share the experience and create a special memory, inspired by former teammate Pascal Dupuis.
Is Marc-André Fleury retiring?
Yes, the veteran goaltender plans to retire at the end of the current NHL season after a 21-year career.
Which teams did Fleury play for?
Fleury played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks, and Minnesota Wild.
Appreciate the human side of professional athletes as Fleury shares a career milestone with his family.
Recognize the end of a significant era in goaltending with Fleury's retirement.
Fleury's legacy includes not only his on-ice success (three Stanley Cups, second all-time wins) but also his reputation as an exceptional teammate.
It was a touching moment seeing Fleury and his children on the ice. What's your favorite Marc-André Fleury memory?
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Source 2: Canucks Rick Tocchet Shares Fond Memories Of Marc-André Fleury (Based on provided text context)
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