JUST IN: Excitement Hits as Marc-André Fleury Receives Emotional Send-Off From Penguins Fans After Final NHL Appearance

The city of Pittsburgh was awash with emotion and nostalgia last night as longtime goaltender Marc-André Fleury took to the ice for the final time in his illustrious NHL career. The veteran netminder, who began his journey with the Pittsburgh Penguins over two decades ago, received a heartfelt and emotional send-off from fans, teammates, and the entire hockey community after his final appearance in an NHL game.

Fleury, 40, officially announced his retirement earlier this week, capping off a 21-season career that included three Stanley Cup championships with the Penguins and a Vezina Trophy as the league’s top goaltender. Though he spent time with the Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks, and Minnesota Wild in later years, Fleury returned to Pittsburgh for his final game — bringing his story full circle in the city that embraced him as a teenager.

A Hero’s Farewell

The atmosphere at PPG Paints Arena was electric from the moment Fleury skated out for warmups. Chants of “Fleury! Fleury!” echoed throughout the sold-out arena as fans donned No. 29 jerseys, many holding signs thanking the beloved goaltender for his years of dedication and leadership.

Before the puck dropped, the Penguins organization played a tribute video highlighting Fleury’s career milestones — from his selection as the first overall pick in the 2003 NHL Draft to his game-saving stops in the 2009 Stanley Cup Final. As the video concluded, Fleury was visibly emotional, wiping away tears as he saluted the crowd.

“It’s hard to put into words,” Fleury said postgame. “This city, these fans — they’ve meant everything to me. Pittsburgh gave me a home, a purpose, and memories that will last forever.”

On-Ice Moments to Remember

Fleury started the game in net for the Penguins and played the opening period, delivering a vintage performance that reminded fans of his prime years. After stopping all 12 shots he faced, he was ceremoniously pulled at the first intermission to a standing ovation that lasted more than five minutes. Every Penguins player left the bench to hug the goaltender, and even the opposing team joined in acknowledging his legendary career.

Sidney Crosby, longtime friend and captain of the Penguins, shared a heartfelt embrace with Fleury at center ice.

“I don’t know if there’s a better teammate out there,” Crosby said. “Flower brought joy to every room he entered. He’s the kind of guy who made all of us better — as players and as people.”

A Legacy Cemented

Fleury retires with over 550 career wins, placing him among the top goaltenders in NHL history. Beyond the numbers, however, it’s his infectious personality, sportsmanship, and resilience that made him a fan favorite across the league.

Known for his acrobatic saves and ever-present smile, Fleury helped define an era of Penguins hockey that brought the franchise back to prominence. His departure leaves a void both on and off the ice — but his legacy in Pittsburgh is immortal.

Looking Ahead

While Fleury has not confirmed what’s next, he hinted at remaining involved in hockey in some capacity, possibly in coaching or mentorship. “I love the game too much to walk away completely,” he said with a grin.

As he left the ice for the final time, Fleury took one last lap around the rink, raising his stick to the crowd while fans roared in appreciation. It was the end of an era — and a perfect final chapter for a player who gave everything to the game.