Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury is nearing the end of his career in the National Hockey League and has made it clear which team he prefers to play for next season, or else he'll consider retirement.
In a recent interview, Fleury expressed that if he continues in the NHL next season, it will be with the Minnesota Wild. However, if he doesn't receive a contract offer from the team, retirement could be on the horizon.
"It's probably Minnesota or retirement. I wouldn't want to move and take my three kids out of their environment. They've moved enough already. I don't want to uproot them. My girls have their school, their friends and their sports in Minnesota. And my wife, Veronique, is also happy here." Fleury said.
At 39, Fleury is in his second full season with the Minnesota Wild after joining them from the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2021-22 season. This season, he has played 36 games, with a record of 16-12-5, a 2.85 goals against average, an .899 save percentage, and two shutouts. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st.
The Minnesota Wild face an intriguing goaltending situation this summer, with top prospect Jesper Wallstedt waiting in the wings. Additionally, 25-year-old Filip Gustavsson provides depth, with two years left on his contract. If Fleury returns next season, it's likely he'll maintain a similar role, playing around 30-35 games.