END OF AN ERA: Marc-Andre Fleury Officially Retires After 21 Iconic NHL Seasons—Three Stanley Cups, 575 Wins, and a Hall of Fame Legacy Cemented Forever
The curtain has officially closed on one of the most decorated goaltending careers in NHL history. Marc-Andre Fleury, the ever-charismatic netminder for the Minnesota Wild, has announced his retirement after an astonishing 21-season run, leaving behind a legacy that few in the sport can match.
Fleury, affectionately known as “Flower,” walks away from the game with 575 regular-season wins, placing him second all-time among NHL goaltenders—trailing only Martin Brodeur. His resume is nothing short of Hall of Fame-worthy: three Stanley Cup championships with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017), a Vezina Trophy in 2021, and a reputation for clutch playoff performances, athletic flair, and unparalleled leadership.
From being drafted first overall in 2003 to becoming the bedrock of multiple franchises—including the Penguins, Golden Knights, Blackhawks, and Wild—Fleury’s career has been one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless excellence.
“It’s been an incredible ride,” Fleury said in a heartfelt farewell statement. “I’ve had the honor to play for amazing teams, in amazing cities, with incredible teammates. I’ve lived my dream for 21 years, and now it’s time to start a new chapter.”
His time with the Minnesota Wild served as a graceful swan song, mentoring young players and continuing to compete at a high level in his final seasons. Though a Cup wasn’t in the cards during his stint in the State of Hockey, Fleury’s impact on the locker room and the community was profound.
Throughout his career, Fleury was known not just for his flashy glove saves or jaw-dropping reflexes, but also for his infectious smile, genuine humility, and the unwavering respect he commanded league-wide. Few goaltenders in the modern era have been as universally beloved—by fans, teammates, and even opponents.
His career totals include:
1,020+ games played
575 wins
2.58 GAA
0.912 save percentage
73 shutouts
Three Stanley Cups
One Vezina Trophy
Two Olympic gold medals (as part of Team Canada)
With these numbers, and the legacy he built across multiple teams and generations of fans, Marc-Andre Fleury is a lock for the Hockey Hall of Fame when eligible.
As he heads into retirement, Fleury leaves behind not just stats, but an indelible mark on the sport—an icon whose passion, poise, and personality helped define a golden era of NHL goaltending.
Enjoy retirement, Flower—you’ve earned every moment. 🏆🌸