Marc-André Fleury: The Flower Who Never Fades — A Legendary Goaltending Journey

Marc-André Fleury isn’t just a name in the NHL record books — he’s one of the most beloved, entertaining, and accomplished goaltenders the game has ever seen. Nicknamed “The Flower” (after his last name, which means “flower” in French), Fleury has crafted a career full of jaw-dropping saves, championship runs, and a personality that fans and teammates alike can’t help but love.

Born in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, Fleury was drafted 1st overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2003 NHL Draft, a rare honor for a goalie. From the start, he showed the potential to become something special, and over the years, he more than delivered.

Three-Time Stanley Cup Champion

Fleury played a pivotal role in the Penguins’ championship runs, helping Pittsburgh lift the Stanley Cup three times (2009, 2016, 2017). His clutch saves, especially during the 2009 playoffs when he famously stopped Nicklas Lidström’s buzzer-beater attempt to secure the Cup, are permanently etched in hockey history.

Even when he transitioned into a backup role during the Penguins’ later Cup wins, Fleury remained the ultimate team player — supporting Matt Murray and stepping up when needed, showing a humility rare among star players.

One of the Winningest Goalies Ever

As of 2025, Fleury ranks second all-time in NHL goalie wins, with over 550 victories, only trailing legendary Martin Brodeur. That’s an incredible achievement considering the physical and mental demands of being a starting goalie year after year.

He also holds over 75 career shutouts and has played in 1,000+ NHL games, making him one of only a handful of goaltenders in history to reach that milestone.

Golden Knights Hero & Expansion Icon

When the Vegas Golden Knights joined the NHL in 2017, Fleury became the face of the expansion team. Many thought Vegas would struggle in its first few years — but with Fleury in net, they shocked the hockey world by reaching the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season.

Fleury’s incredible play, combined with his magnetic personality, made him an instant fan favorite in Vegas. He was awarded the Vezina Trophy in 2021, recognizing him as the NHL’s best goaltender — a well-deserved acknowledgment of his brilliance between the pipes.

Beloved On and Off the Ice

Beyond the stats and championships, Fleury is admired for his playful spirit, sense of humor, and love for the game. He’s known for pranking teammates, flashing his signature grin after big saves, and interacting with fans and kids, making him not just a great athlete, but a great ambassador for hockey.

Even as he moves into the twilight of his career, Fleury continues to add to his legacy, mentoring younger goalies and proving that passion and hard work can carry you far.

Final Thought

Marc-André Fleury’s career is the perfect mix of talent, perseverance, and heart. Whether you’re a Penguins fan, a Golden Knights supporter, or just a hockey lover, it’s impossible not to respect what Fleury has accomplished.

He’s not just one of the greatest goalies of his era — he’s one of the greatest ever. And while his stats speak for themselves, it’s his joy for the game and connection with fans that truly make him unforgettable.

Marc-André Fleury – NHL Regular Season Career Stats (2003–2025)

Season	Team	GP	W	L	OTL	GAA	SV%	SO
2003–04	Pittsburgh Penguins	21	4	14	2	3.64	.896	1
2005–06	Pittsburgh Penguins	50	13	27	6	3.25	.898	1
2006–07	Pittsburgh Penguins	67	40	16	9	2.83	.906	5
2007–08	Pittsburgh Penguins	35	19	10	2	2.33	.921	4
2008–09	Pittsburgh Penguins	62	35	18	7	2.67	.912	4
2009–10	Pittsburgh Penguins	67	37	21	6	2.65	.905	1
2010–11	Pittsburgh Penguins	65	36	20	5	2.32	.918	3
2011–12	Pittsburgh Penguins	67	42	17	4	2.36	.913	3
2012–13	Pittsburgh Penguins	33	23	8	0	2.39	.916	1
2013–14	Pittsburgh Penguins	64	39	18	5	2.37	.915	5
2014–15	Pittsburgh Penguins	64	34	20	9	2.32	.920	10
2015–16	Pittsburgh Penguins	58	35	17	6	2.29	.921	5
2016–17	Pittsburgh Penguins	38	18	10	7	3.02	.909	1
2017–18	Vegas Golden Knights	46	29	13	4	2.24	.927	4
2018–19	Vegas Golden Knights	61	35	21	5	2.51	.913	8
2019–20	Vegas Golden Knights	49	27	16	5	2.77	.905	5
2020–21	Vegas Golden Knights	36	26	10	0	1.98	.928	6
2021–22	Chicago Blackhawks	45	19	21	5	2.95	.908	4
2021–22	Minnesota Wild	11	9	2	0	2.74	.910	0
2022–23	Minnesota Wild	46	24	16	4	2.85	.908	2
2023–24	Minnesota Wild	40	17	15	5	2.98	.895	2
2024–25	Minnesota Wild	26	14	9	1	2.93	.899	1
Career		1051	575	339	95	2.60	.912	76