The Pittsburgh Penguins will help celebrate the career of one of the best players in their franchise's history.

PITTSBURGH – Before the puck drops between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Minnesota Wild, there will be a celebration for one of the greatest goalies ever. Marc-Andre Fleury, currently a member of the Wild, is known as the best netminder in Penguins' history. Fleury will be honored for the work he’s done over his career, highlighted by recent achievements that may not be seen for a very long time.

Earlier this season, Fleury played in his 1,000^th career game and hit 552 wins to hold sole possession of second all-time. 1,000 games by a goalie is almost unheard of, especially as the position morphs into a two-man (sometimes three) operation. 552 wins is also a number that may not be reached for quite some time as Fleury adds to his Hall of Fame resume.

Many of those games (691) and wins (375) came with the Penguins. Fleury’s former teammates have kept tabs on his play and are proud to see what he’s accomplished. Guys like Sidney Crosby are excited to see what’s in store for the celebration in Minnesota.

“It’s well deserved, he’s had quite the career,” Crosby said. “It’ll be nice to celebrate with him.”

For Crosby, Fleury was much more than a teammate; they spent 12 seasons together and even shared the international stage during the 2010 Olympics.

“There’s a lot of memories there,” Crosby said. “The energy and the passion that he has still to this day. That says a lot about him as a player and a person.”

Penguins forward Jake Guentzel didn’t play with Fleury long, but they did win the Stanley Cup together in 2017. Despite not sharing a locker room for long, Guentzel understands what Fleury means to many.

“It’s pretty remarkable what he’s done over his career,” Guentzel said. “He’s one of the best on and off the ice. It’s a special night that we can be there. I’m sure a lot of guys will be taking it in.”

Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan is another name that didn’t spend ages with Fleury, but they knew how to win in their time together.

“Obviously, Flower means so much to this organization and this city with his contributions,” Sullivan said. “He was one of the most popular teammates that certainly I’ve been around. A high-quality person and fierce competitor.”

The contest between the Penguins and Wild could be the final time Fleury faces off against his long-time team. Fleury is in the final year of his contract and his future in the NHL is uncertain at the age of 39.

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