Marc-Andre Fleury’s return to Pittsburgh for a final game with the Penguins marks the end of a remarkable career. This weekend, Fleury will sign a one-day contract to cap off his journey where it all began, playing a preseason game at PPG Paints Arena. This will certainly be a heartfelt moment for fans and teammates alike, as it represents one last chapter for Fleury with the Penguins.
Fleury’s career is filled with both triumphant moments and personal stories, exemplifying not only his skill on the ice but also his distinctive character. Over nearly a decade of covering the Penguins, one particularly memorable story comes from January 2013. Following a 2012 playoff upset against the Philadelphia Flyers, Fleury endured criticism, including a comment I made about his practice demeanor. Though initially upset, Fleury’s amiable nature shone through, and he offered an unforgettable reconciliation, highlighting his forgiving personality.
March 2014 brought another iconic Fleury anecdote. His humor and light-heartedness were evident after a game against Columbus, where a late Blue Jackets goal robbed him of a shutout. Despite the cannon blast that followed the Columbus goal—a noise we both disliked—Fleury was amused that I too had to endure it. “You jinxed my ass on the shutout,” he joked.
Another glimpse into Fleury’s character occurred in October 2016 in Montreal. After a night out, I encountered the Penguins’ team bus at a red light. Fleury, from within the bus, playfully wagged his finger at me—a moment capturing his playful nature once again.
One of the more charming stories happened in April 2017. After a successful game against Washington, Fleury casually joked about noticing a fan—who was unknowingly my girlfriend—in the stands. His humor and camaraderie with teammates were unmistakable, always adding levity to intense situations.
Perhaps the defining moment of Fleury’s determination came in May 2017. With an incredible performance against the Washington Capitals, Fleury reaffirmed his value and commitment to the team. This unwavering dedication was evident when he chose to remain with the Penguins for another shot at the Stanley Cup, a decision that played a pivotal role in their success.
Fleury’s return to Pittsburgh, thus, is not just about concluding his career but celebrating the countless memories and friendships he forged along the way. This weekend’s game is poised to be a memorable farewell to a player who has made a lasting impact both on and off the ice.