SAN JOSE, Calif. – A unique moment unfolded on Thursday as Marc-Andre Fleury, the veteran goaltender for the Minnesota Wild, faced off against San Jose Sharks’ rising star, Macklin Celebrini. An interesting point highlighted by the game was the age difference between the two players. Fleury made his NHL debut back in 2003, while Celebrini, at only 18, was born nearly three years later.

In the match, the young phenom seized the opportunity to shine, scoring two goals despite the Sharks ultimately losing to the Wild 5-2. Being the youngest player in the league, Celebrini represents a fresh face in the sport, significantly younger than Fleury, who has enjoyed a lengthy 21-year career and has hinted that this could be his final season.

Celebrini expressed admiration for Fleury, noting, “He’s been in the league longer than I’ve been alive, so it’s been amazing to watch his career.” The young player referenced Fleury’s successful runs with teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Vegas Golden Knights, implying how much he respects Fleury’s abilities both on and off the ice.

His first goal was opportunistic, coming during a 3-on-2 rush, while his second goal was a slick wrist shot that flew past Fleury’s glove, striking the crossbar before finding the back of the net. Celebrini showcased his scoring potential with a total of seven shots on goal, marking his best performance yet in just three NHL games.

Fleury had kind words for the young player, stating, “He’s got good awareness of where guys are at. He’s got a good shot.” Reflecting on the second goal Celebrini scored, Fleury commented, “That last goal, I love. I wish I could get it back, but it was still good.” He expressed interest in following Celebrini’s career as he continues to develop.

Fleury made history of his own during the game, playing in his 1,029th career match, which matched him with the legendary Patrick Roy for the most games played by a goaltender in NHL history. He also secured what may be remembered as his final game in San Jose, extending his win streak to eight at the Shark Tank. It was here that Fleury notably guided the Pittsburgh Penguins to a Stanley Cup victory in 2016, clinching the title in Game 6 against the Sharks.

Looking back on his time in the arena, Fleury remarked on the excitement and energy it brings, especially during the playoffs. “The atmosphere in the Tank is always good when the playoffs come around,” he noted, recalling the challenging environment that fans and a competitive Sharks team created throughout his career there.