Marc-André Fleury

Lore & Background

Fleury played junior hockey for the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles in the QMJHL from 2000–01, where his jersey number 29 was later retired. He was drafted first overall in 2003, becoming only the third goaltender taken first overall in NHL history, after Michel Plasse and Rick DiPietro. He made his NHL debut in 2003–04 as the youngest goaltender in the league at 18 years old, recording a 46-save performance in his first game. During his 13 seasons with the Penguins, he won Stanley Cup championships in 2009, 2016, and 2017—once as a starter and twice as a backup. After being selected by the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2017 expansion draft, he reached the Stanley Cup Final again in 2018 and won the William M. Jennings Trophy and Vezina Trophy in 2021. He also played for the Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild, retiring with the Wild in 2025.

Reader's Guide

Fleury's significance lies in his longevity and consistency as a goaltender. He is one of only three goaltenders to reach 500 career wins, joining Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur, and the fourth to play 1,000 games, alongside Roy, Brodeur, and Roberto Luongo. His three Stanley Cup victories with the Penguins—one as a starter and two as a backup—highlight his role in a championship dynasty. The 2021 Vezina Trophy recognized him as the league's best goaltender that season, while the William M. Jennings Trophy acknowledged his team's defensive excellence. Internationally, he won a gold medal with Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics and two silver medals at the World Junior Championships. His nickname 'Flower' derives from the English translation of his French surname, meaning 'in bloom' or 'in flower.'

Did You Know?

• Fleury is only the third goaltender taken first overall in the NHL entry draft, after Michel Plasse and Rick DiPietro.
• He made his NHL debut at age 18, the youngest goaltender in the league that season.
• His jersey number 29 was retired by the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles on January 25, 2008.
• He is the third goaltender to reach 500 wins, after Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur.