Elliotte Friedman Makes His Thoughts Known About Marc-André Fleury’s ‘Fairy-Tale’ NHL Record as 40-Year-Old in Final Montreal Game
Marc-André Fleury’s career has been nothing short of magical, and when the veteran goaltender stepped onto the ice in Montreal for what could be his final game in the city, it felt like the perfect ending to an incredible journey. As a 40-year-old, Fleury continues to defy age and expectations, cementing his legacy as one of the NHL’s all-time greats. And when discussing his performance and his status as a living legend, hockey analyst Elliotte Friedman couldn’t help but share his admiration for Fleury’s “fairy-tale” NHL career.
Fleury, a former first overall pick in the 2003 NHL Draft, has been a key figure in the league for over 18 seasons. From his days as a young, dynamic goaltender with the Pittsburgh Penguins to becoming a Stanley Cup champion, Fleury’s journey has been filled with both triumph and perseverance. Now, playing for the Minnesota Wild, Fleury is still playing at a high level, despite being on the other side of 40. His resilience and ability to stay relevant in today’s fast-paced NHL are part of what makes his story so remarkable.
In his final game in Montreal, the city that helped shape him, Fleury faced off against the Canadiens and received an outpouring of love and respect from the fans. It was a poignant moment for the goaltender, who had spent his early years with the Penguins and had only occasional visits back to Montreal. As he skated out to the crease, it was clear that this could very well be his last game in his hometown.
Friedman, a respected voice in the hockey world, took to social media and on-air commentary to praise Fleury for his incredible career. “Marc-André Fleury has had a fairy-tale career, and to see him still performing at this level at 40, especially in Montreal, is something special,” Friedman said. “There are very few athletes who get to write their own story, but Fleury has done just that. It’s a career filled with memorable moments, big wins, and yes, even a few heartaches. But it’s been a magical ride.”
Fleury’s career arc, from being a young, highly touted goalie with the Penguins to becoming the first overall pick, to later capturing three Stanley Cup championships, speaks to his perseverance and work ethic. Despite the pressure of being the No. 1 pick, Fleury has excelled through it all, becoming one of the most beloved and respected goalies in NHL history. His reputation as a leader in the locker room, combined with his ability to thrive in high-pressure moments, has kept him relevant even as younger goalies come into the fold.
Friedman also noted that Fleury’s longevity in the NHL is a testament to his drive and passion for the game. “Not many goaltenders play well into their 40s, but Fleury continues to be a key contributor,” Friedman added. “For someone to still be playing at this level, to be so dedicated and to perform in his 40s, it really shows his love for the game. He’s living proof that age is just a number in the NHL.”
Fleury’s performance in Montreal—whether it was his saves, his leadership, or simply his ability to soak in the special moment—was a fitting tribute to a career that has included nearly every honor a player could hope for. The ovation he received from the Montreal crowd spoke volumes, and as Friedman and many others observed, it felt like a fairy-tale ending to what has been a career full of remarkable moments.
In the coming years, as Fleury eventually transitions away from the game, his legacy will endure. He is not just a goalie; he is a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and the love of hockey that transcends time. It’s clear that Marc-André Fleury’s journey isn’t just one of skill, but of heart—a journey Friedman aptly described as a “fairy-tale” worthy of the history books.
