WATCH: NHL legends welcome Marc-Andre Fleury to unique 1,000-game club during faceoff against Jets

Marc-Andre Fleury becomes the 4th goalie in NHL history to play 1,000 games on ice. He joins the exclusive club of his childhood idol along with two other legends.

WATCH: NHL legends welcome Marc-Andre Fleury to unique 1,000-game club during faceoff against Jets

Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury [Image Credit: Imago]

Marc-Andre Fleury finally joined the NHL-exclusive goalie club after completing his 1,000th career game against the Winnipeg Jets. During the Minnesota Wild vs. Jets faceoff, the three legendary goalies honored ‘Flower’ on his huge accomplishment. 

Another name has been added to the 1,000-game list with Martin Brodeur (1,266 games), Roberto Luongo (1,044 games), and Patrick Roy (1,029 games). Brodeur congratulated the “impressive” 39-year-old, welcoming him to the club – “Welcome to the club buddy.”

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Luongo pointed out how Fleury has always brought “so much enjoyment to the game” and that was something “I’ve always loved about your game.” But perhaps the strong message the Wild’s goalie received was from his childhood idol and competitor Patrick Roy.

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I always admire the fun you had on the ice.
Patrick Roy to Marc-Andre Fleury on X.

His teammates and fans also played a huge role in celebrating his special day, but the heartfelt wishes from the legendary trio will remain as a special message to Fleury. The goalie noted that feels “very fortunate” to have played for so long, to have made so many memories on the ice, and for the future days ahead.

Winnipeg Jets spoil Marc-Andre Fleury’s special 1,000 career game celebration

While it all started on a happy note, the ending could have been a bit better for the Minnesota Wilds. The team lost the game to the Jets in a 2-3 record, spoiling the ultimate 1,000 career night celebration of Marc-Andre Fleury. 

The goalie got all the heartfelt messages from fans, teammates, and the legendary trio. The night would have been perfect if the team also won the game, tying Patrick Roy for 2nd all-time in wins in his 1,000th career game. The Wild had a 2-1 lead but unfortunately, they could not hold onto it.

Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury [Image Credit: Imago]
Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury [Image Credit: Imago]

Wild’s forward and alternate captain Marcus Foligno stated:

It’s tough to lose it for Flower like that in that sense, 1,000 games, hell of an accomplishment. You want to win it for him. Disappointing the way it had to end there.
Marcus Foligno as per The Hockey News.

Toninato, the Duluth, Minnesota native complimented Fleury on his achievement, “He’s just such an amazing goalie.” “Pretty cool to be a part of the 1,000th game. Really special night,” he said. Fleury admitted that the loss was “disappointing” but was proud that “the guys played great tonight.”

I wish it was a win. Disappointing. I thought the guys played great tonight. Battled hard.
Marc-Andre Fleury as per The Hockey News.

He wholeheartedly appreciated the reception of the crowd and teammates as he noted “it means a lot to me.” He is “flattered” and “very fortunate” to play for so long and “to do what I love for many years. I’m lucky for that,” he said when asked about how Fleury felt on his 1,000th career game.

Since his debut till now, Fleury has won the hearts of thousands of fans with his infectious smile and genuine playful personality. Most of his former teammates and even staff at times have fallen victim to his pranks. Many are hoping to see further games involving the 39-year-old in the future as he has not announced any official retirement plans.

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