In the latest #OffseasonwithKutner updates, we discuss one of the most beloved Golden Knights players, Marc-Andre Fleury.
Fans have favorite players, but often there’s that one that all fans love. Vegas goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury is one of those athletes. Beloved by most, if not all, of the Golden Knights nation
What We Know About Fleury
- Selected First Overall in 2003 NHL Draft
- Lead Pittsburgh to the 2008, 2009 Stanley Cup finals as the starting goaltender
- Won Stanley Cup finals as starting goaltender in 2009
- Won back-to-back Stanley Cup finals in 2016 and 2017
- Three time NHL All-Star (2011, 2015, 2018)
- 2010 Olympic Gold Medalist
- 2014 NHL Shutout Leader (10)
Since his debut on October 10th, 2003, Fleury has been one of the NHL’s elite goaltenders. In his first four years, the former #1 overall draft pick improved his Save Percentage every season. Also, Fleury posted a sub-3.00 Goals Allowed Average in 11 of his 14 seasons.
What We May Not Know About Fleury
- Born November, 28, 1984 in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec
- Awarded the 2003 Mike Bossy Trophy for Top QMJHL Prospect
- Fleury’s #29 Cape Breton Screaming Eagle jersey was retired in 2008
- Won the MVP and Top Goaltender awards at the 2003 World Juniors Championship
- Built a Playground for Pittsburgh kids
- Supplied Pittsburgh Boys and Girls Clubs with Equipment, Nets, Scoreboards
The Golden Knights backstop has been a resident for only one year but is beloved like he’s a longtime local. In Pittsburgh, he was welcomed the same way. For thirteen seasons, Fleury got heavily involved in the community. In 2017, he cut the ribbon on a brand new playground he personally financed.
“It’s been something we’ve been thinking about for a little while, and we were just thinking about something to give back… The people of Pittsburgh have been so good to me, so to build something fun, something for the kids, I’m glad it all came out and the kids seem to like it.” – Marc-Andre Fleury on 6/19/17
Based on his past acts of kindness, Las Vegas residents should expect the same from their favorite goaltender. So far, Fleury has been a leader off the ice, exposing young Vegas fans to the sport. Twenty-years down the road, high hockey participation could be Fleury’s biggest impact in Nevada.
“Vegas has given me this opportunity to do what I love, and I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else, and hopefully I can finish my career here.”-Marc-Andre Fleury on 6/12/18
Last month, the Golden Knights organization announced they’ve extended Fleury through the 2021-22. Chances are, the 14-year veteran will finish his career in Las Vegas. At that point, the goaltender from Quebec could be the most appreciated athlete in Nevada history. He’s well on his way.
Last season, Attorney Adam Kutner gave away tickets to the Vegas Golden Knights home games, along with Zamboni rides during the intermissions. As an avid hockey fan, Adam Kutner looks to keep the VGK spirit alive by providing weekly news updates about the team’s offseason. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news on our beloved Golden Knights.
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