WATCH: “The old time,” Sidney Crosby presents Marc-Andre Fleury with heartfelt custom painting celebrating ‘Flower’ 1,000th NHL game

Marc-Andre Fleury honored by former teammates prior to game at Xcel Center as the goalie takes 2nd spot in NHL’s all-time win list for goaltenders.

WATCH: “The old time,” Sidney Crosby presents Marc-Andre Fleury with heartfelt custom painting celebrating ‘Flower’ 1,000th NHL game

Sidney Crosby gifts artwork to Marc-Andre Fleury [Image Credit: NHL]

NHL’s ‘Flower’ Marc-Andre Fleury enjoyed a special heartfelt night before the game at Xcel Energy Center between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Minnesota Wild. His former teammates and buddies Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang dropped by Wild’s locker room to congratulate him and gift him a custom-made painting in the wake of his 1,000th NHL game celebration.

The veteran netminder snatched the 2nd NHL’s all-time win list spot on December 31st, surpassing childhood idol Patrick Roy. This Friday became part of the celebration, marking the Wild vs Pens clash for the last time of the 2023-24 season. With doubts and debates over Fleury’s NHL career, this celebration further weighs emotionally on all fans, teammates, and his family.

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Fleury’s gifted artwork featured all four teams he has played for in the NHL – Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, and Chicago Blackhawks. Flowers were drawn alongside the painting to honor his nickname. Furthermore, Fleury’s teammate Filip Gustavsson wore a flower crown into the game to honor his milestone. 

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The drawing also featured Fleury’s moments with Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. Flower said, “Oh, dude, that’s awesome man…the old times, you know?” to which Crosby simply smiled and said “Yeah”. Crosby asked where he was planning to hang the painting, and Fleury said it would be above his bed so his wife, Veronique LaRose, could see it when he was gone.

Letang on the other hand noted, how he can’t believe Fleury has already dressed up for 1,000 NHL games. All throughout their interaction, the trio could be seen smiling and joking. The three also shared a friendly hug before stepping on the ice. The Wild played an emotional tribute before the puck drop.

Marc-Andre Fleury’s children celebrate and honor their dad in heartwarming video

Marc-Andre Fleury’s children Estelle, Scarlett, and James read the starting lineup for the Minnesota Wild in the locker room. They all took turns to read out the player’s name before giving the crown of “best dad ever” to Fleury. 

Marc-Andre Fleury with his kids [Image Credit: X]
Marc-Andre Fleury with his kids [Image Credit: X]

The center also broadcasted a tribute video to Fleury by his children where they all spoke about the “magical” and best dad they’ve known. Scarlett thanked Fleury for always inspiring her to work hard as she’s seen her dad do the same. Estelle said that Fleury is magical and “I am so proud of you”.

“I am proud of you dad, you are the best,” James added in an adorable voice at the end. Sidney Crosby also recalled the old days saying “He’s had quite the career”. As it’s not known whether it’ll be Fleury’s last season or not, Crosby added, “Another milestone. It’ll be nice to celebrate with him.”

Marc-Andre Fleury is one of the most favorite and cherished players by NHL fans. His personality both on and off the ice attracted and swept along many fans to join his club. Putting aside the question of whether he’ll be there for another season or not, Fleury alongside his family, friends, and teammates is enjoying the present moment to the fullest.

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