Marc-André Fleury grew up being a fervent admirer of Patrick Roy. ” Oh yes. I was a big fan of the Montreal Canadiens,” recalls Fleury.
Decades later, the Sorel native is poised to join the four-time Stanley Cup winner as second in NHL wins.
The last goalie drafted first overall (the Penguins, in 2003), Fleury is only one victory away from tying Roy with 551 wins.
“I’m very lucky to have played so long and with several good teams,” confides the 39-year-old Wild goaltender.
Winner of three Stanley Cups, Fleury has a record of 550-320-91 and two ties in 998 regular season games. So he’s about to catch up with Roy. Far at the top is Martin Brodeur, author of 691 victories.
“So many years of consistency,” Fleury said of these legendary Quebec goalies. They always found a way. »
Between Pittsburgh and Minnesota, Fleury had a memorable stint with the Golden Knights, leading Vegas to the final round in the organization’s first season. He also wore the Chicago Blackhawks uniform.
“Marc-André is one of the best guys I’ve ever met,” said Maple Leafs winger Ryan Reaves, who played alongside Fleury with Pittsburgh, Vegas and Minnesota.
Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet was an assistant with the Penguins when Fleury helped the club win the Cup in 2016 and 2017. “One of the best players to be around,” Tocchet said of the Vezina winner in 2021. He is an exceptional human being. »
Hawks defenseman Seth Jones said Fleury, who also won the Cup in 2009 with Pittsburgh, left his mark during half a campaign in the Windy City.
“You hear about how he can liven up a locker room and how hard he works,” Jones said. But seeing it for yourself is something. He is a born leader. »
“It’s very rare for a goalie to be a first overall pick,” added Leafs captain John Tavares. It’s a lot of pressure, but it’s amazing how well he handled it. »
Wild forward Frederick Gaudreau, from Bromont, greatly appreciates working alongside Fleury.
“He has an aura, he gives off positive energy,” Gaudreau said. I am very grateful to have him as a teammate. »
Gaudreau mentions that Fleury sets a good example with the way he goes about his days.
“It’s very important for professional athletes to keep their hearts young,” Gaudreau said. We started playing because it was fun to shoot or make a save, adds the striker. We must keep this spirit. Yes there is a “business” side, but at the heart of it all, there should always be the fun of playing. »
The Wild will play again Saturday at 2 p.m. in Winnipeg. The team will then host the Jets the next day, again at 2 p.m.