ST. PAUL, Minn. — With playoff berth secured, the Minnesota Wild entered a relaxed state, leading to a heartwarming suggestion from Filip Gustavsson as overtime loomed.
Gustavsson proposed to coach John Hynes a fitting tribute to Marc-Andre Fleury, an NHL legend nearing retirement. In a symbolic move, Fleury replaced Gustavsson in goal for the overtime period. The veteran, in his final regular season appearance, delivered a memorable performance.
Fleury showcased his skill with five saves in under five minutes, featuring signature kick saves and a crucial denial during an Anaheim Ducks 4-on-3 power play. This effort secured his 575th career win, the second-highest in NHL history.
“I just wanted to enjoy it. Maybe I wasn`t at my sharpest, right? So I just tried to dive around, not let them shoot,” Fleury commented after the Wild`s 3-2 victory on Tuesday. Joel Eriksson Ek`s late goal, scoring off his rebound with just 20.9 seconds left in regulation, forced the overtime. “The team played great defense around our net, really helped me out, it was great.”