Marc-André Fleury's recent comments have ignited a flurry of speculation, linking the veteran goaltender to potential comebacks with the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens. While officially retired, Fleury's remarks suggest that a return to the NHL isn't entirely out of the question, fueling rumors of him joining either team.
The Oilers, currently navigating goaltending uncertainties, have emerged as a primary contender for Fleury's services. With Tristan Jarry sidelined by injury, the Oilers' goaltending depth has come under scrutiny. NHL insider Frank Seravalli suggested the Oilers are considering Fleury, noting his "itch to keep playing" and Edmonton's status as a team with a legitimate chance to win. General Manager Stan Bowman's prior association with Fleury during their time with the Chicago Blackhawks adds another layer of intrigue to the potential reunion.
However, the Oilers' current goaltending situation is complex. They have Tristan Jarry, Calvin Pickard, and Connor Ingram on the roster. Connor Ungar is also performing well in the AHL. Adding Fleury would mean moving off of Pickard.
Fleury's potential fit with the Canadiens is perhaps more straightforward. Montreal faces questions in goal and could benefit from a more reliable option. Playing in his home province would also appeal to Fleury.
In an interview, Fleury acknowledged receiving calls from teams interested in his return. While he refrained from naming specific organizations, he admitted that some conversations gave him pause. "Honestly, I've toyed with the idea a bit," Fleury confessed. "I miss it… the feeling of playing hockey, of being part of a group, of having a common goal, of winning games—you don't get that in everyday life".
Several factors contribute to the Fleury speculation. The league-wide save percentage has declined in recent seasons, making Fleury's past performance with the Minnesota Wild, where he averaged a .902 save percentage, particularly attractive to teams seeking stability. Moreover, Fleury's agent, Allan Walsh, revealed that five teams contacted Fleury to gauge his interest in coming out of retirement.
Despite the rumors, challenges remain. Fleury's age and time away from the game raise questions about his ability to perform at the NHL level. Financial considerations also play a role. Fleury would likely command a pro-rated contract, potentially requiring teams like the Oilers to make roster adjustments.
Ultimately, whether Fleury returns to the NHL remains uncertain. He has given no indication that he's actively pushing for a return. However, his admission that retirement isn't "all sunshine and rainbows," coupled with the unsettled goaltending situations in Edmonton and Montreal, keeps the possibility alive. If either team's goaltending situation deteriorates or a playoff push demands certainty, Fleury's phone may ring again.
