Unexpected retirement twist for Marc-Andre Fleury involving the Edmonton Oilers explained by NHL reporter
Photo credit: NHL.com
Former Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury appears to be gaining interest from one specific Canadian contending team, despite announcing his retirement from hockey earlier this summer.
Earlier this month, Fleury's agent Allan Walsh revealed several teams contacted the goaltender on July 1st free agency which prompted speculation of the veteran coming out of retirement.
«On July 1, I got called by five teams asking if there was any way Marc-André Fleury would un-retire.»
- Allan Walsh
- Allan Walsh
The agent did reveal that his client, at that very moment, did not have an interest in returning to the NHL, but one insider does believe they could persuade the 40-year-old goaltender to make a return between the pipes for one more season.
Edmonton Oilers linked to Marc-Andre Fleury
The Edmonton Oilers have been plagued a victim of the slim goaltending market during this NHL's free agency, including those who were not free agents, but available via trade, such as John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks who was traded to the Detroit Red Wings.
With Connor McDavid only having one more year on his contract before becoming a free agent in 2026, the Oilers must do everything in their power to provide more support around their captain.
Allan Mitchell of The Athletic has just revealed that the Oilers could very well revisit the idea of bringing Fleury out of retirement come closer to training camp, «no matter the current situation.»
«For the Oilers, a Fleury signing would check a lot of boxes. Starter Stuart Skinner would instantly have a goalie partner with pristine bona fides, a hockey lifetime of experience to draw on, and a clear exit path to retirement. The conflict in such an arrangement would be minimal. Skinner would start a large number of games (the Oilers will make the playoffs even if Skinner returns with partner Calvin Pickard), with postseason appearances awarded on merit. If Fleury earns the net, who could possibly criticize a future first-ballot Hall of Famer?»
The NHL reporter added:
«Fleury is retired, and attempts to change his mind have thus far been unsuccessful. For the Oilers, Fleury offers a unique opportunity and is worth pursuing even if the younger Bowman is turned down every time. There are no real alternatives, considering the cap issues and lack of assets to trade for an upgrade.
«Fleury to the Oilers is the best available move for Bowman this summer. His 2024-25 save percentage (five-on-five) was .913, a competitive number for any goalie.»
«Fleury to the Oilers is the best available move for Bowman this summer. His 2024-25 save percentage (five-on-five) was .913, a competitive number for any goalie.»
The Oilers could be the only team actually worthwhile, without a goaltender, to persuade Fleury in his return to the NHL.
Plus, his family could ultimately settle down in Canada, rather than bouncing around American teams (Vegas, Chicago, Minnesota, Pittsburgh).
«Fleury is an all-time legend, and the Oilers are a team in search of glory. It's a perfect fit,» -Mitchell.
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