The seasoned 39-year-old, currently navigating his 20th NHL season and second with the Wild, finds himself at a crossroads, grappling with pivotal decisions about his future in the game.
Expressing gratitude for the lengthy tenure that allowed him to indulge in his passion for hockey, Fleury acknowledges the privilege of playing the sport he loves for an extensive period. In his own words,
The ongoing season has presented challenges for Fleury, as his on-ice performance falls below the standards set in his inaugural year with the Wild. Across ten games, he has posted a 3.21 goals-against average (GAA) and a .884 save percentage (SV%). If these statistics persist, they would mark the lowest save percentage of his illustrious career and the highest GAA since the 2005-06 campaign.
Fleury, however, remains optimistic, stating,
The goaltender's contemplation of retirement is further complicated by the fact that he is in the final year of his contract, carrying a $3.5 million cap charge. This juncture in his career signals the potential culmination of an era, raising the possibility of retirement for one of the NHL's most accomplished goalies.
Renowned for his remarkable achievements, including three Stanley Cup championships, Fleury has etched an indelible mark on the sport. If retirement indeed beckons, it would signify the end of a brilliant career, prompting fans and the hockey community to reflect on the legacy of a goaltending legend.
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Do you think Fleury has had an amazing career? | ||
Yes | 557 | 86.1 % |
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