Wild’s Marc-André Fleury Blanks Habs, Ties for 10th in Shutouts
In a standout performance, Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-André Fleury earned his 69th career shutout on Tuesday night, blanking the Montreal Canadiens in a 4-0 victory. The win not only secured the two points for the Wild but also propelled Fleury into a tie for 10th place on the NHL’s all-time shutouts list, further cementing his legacy as one of the league’s most accomplished goaltenders.
Fleury’s Stellar Performance
Fleury’s performance in net was nothing short of spectacular. Despite facing a determined Canadiens offense, the veteran netminder stood tall, turning away 26 shots in total. His positioning was spot on throughout the game, and he showcased his trademark quick reflexes, especially when Montreal looked to create chances in close. Fleury’s calm demeanor under pressure kept the Habs at bay, particularly during the latter stages of the game when they pushed for a late rally.
The shutout was a testament to Fleury’s consistency and longevity, as he continues to defy age and expectations. At 39 years old, Fleury is still playing at an elite level, and his ability to keep the puck out of the net has been a major factor in the Wild’s success this season. The victory also marked his first shutout of the 2024-2025 season, adding to his already impressive career achievements.
The Milestone
Fleury’s 69th shutout ties him with Hall of Fame goaltender Billy Smith for 10th on the NHL’s all-time list. The milestone is a remarkable achievement in itself, highlighting the incredible career of a goaltender who has played more than 1,000 games across nearly two decades in the NHL. Fleury’s ability to stay at the top of his game despite the passing years is a testament to his work ethic, determination, and love for the game.
To put the accomplishment into perspective, Fleury now stands among some of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the league, with only a few names ahead of him, including the likes of Roberto Luongo, Patrick Roy, and Martin Brodeur. For Fleury, the shutout wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a reminder of his place in the storied history of the sport.
A Critical Victory for the Wild
Fleury’s performance also had significant implications for his team. The Wild, who have been battling for position in the competitive Central Division, needed the win to keep pace with the league’s top teams. Fleury’s shutout not only gave Minnesota the two points but also ensured they had a solid foundation in net as they continue to push for a playoff spot.
The game also highlighted the defensive play in front of Fleury. While Fleury was excellent, the Wild’s defense was equally effective in keeping the Canadiens at bay. Minnesota’s blue line was solid, limiting Montreal’s opportunities in high-danger areas and blocking shots to make Fleury’s job a little easier. The Wild’s structured defensive game allowed Fleury to see most of the shots cleanly, and his ability to stay focused even when there were lulls in action ensured that Montreal never gained any momentum.
Canadiens Struggle in Montreal
On the other side, the Canadiens were unable to generate much offensive pressure on Fleury. Despite some strong efforts from their top players, Montreal could not break through, and the Wild took full advantage. The Habs failed to capitalize on a few power-play opportunities, and their inability to get pucks past Fleury left them empty-handed at the final buzzer.
For the Canadiens, the game was a frustrating one, as they came out with little to show for their efforts. The team has been struggling with consistency this season, and the loss to the Wild served as another reminder of the challenges they face in their rebuilding process.
Conclusion
Marc-André Fleury’s 4-0 shutout against the Montreal Canadiens was a masterclass in goaltending, and his milestone of tying for 10th in career shutouts solidified his legacy as one of the greatest netminders to ever play the game. Fleury’s performance not only secured a crucial victory for the Wild but also provided fans with another reason to marvel at the longevity and skill of one of the NHL’s most beloved figures. As he continues to break records and turn in stellar performances, Fleury remains a key player in Minnesota’s quest for postseason success.
