In a heartfelt gesture that transcended the competitive nature of the NHL, Alex Ovechkin led his Washington Capitals teammates back onto the ice following their 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild on March 27, 2025, to honor the legendary Marc-Andre Fleury. As Fleury embarks on his final season in the league, the moment served as a poignant reminder of the respect and camaraderie that exists among players, even amidst fierce rivalries.
Ovechkin, who has been the captain of the Capitals since the 2009-10 season, initiated this touching tribute after the final horn sounded. Despite not scoring in the game and remaining at 889 career goals—six shy of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record—Ovechkin made it a point to ensure that his teammates acknowledged Fleury's illustrious career. The Capitals’ captain skated over to the tunnel behind the bench, rallied his teammates, and led them back onto the ice to shake hands with Fleury.
“He’s had so many battles with the Caps, with ‘O,'” said Capitals coach Spencer Carbery, reflecting on the significance of the moment. “Pretty classy to be able to send him off and just say how impressive a career he had.” Fleury, who spent 13 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins—one of the Capitals’ biggest rivals—has faced Ovechkin numerous times throughout his career. In total, Fleury has played 47 games against the Capitals, boasting a record of 28-14-3 against them.
The scene was emotional as Ovechkin was the first to greet Fleury at center ice, sharing a hug and a laugh. “Everyone knows he’s one of the best people of all time in the game, so the little respect we can show him at the end of the game I think goes a long way,” said Capitals center Dylan Strome, who played briefly with Fleury in Chicago. Strome’s sentiments were echoed by his teammates, who recognized the significance of honoring a player of Fleury’s caliber.
Fleury’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. Over his 21 years in the NHL, he has dazzled fans with his exceptional skills and sportsmanship. As the Wild’s backup goalie this season, Fleury has taken on a mentorship role, guiding younger players and sharing his wealth of experience. “It’s awesome to see. It’s fun for him, and I am happy for him,” said Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin. “He’s a great person and one of the best I have ever played with, so it’s pretty cool. It’s special to have that when you quit hockey someday, that you played with that guy, for sure.”
The Wild players were not surprised by Ovechkin’s gesture. “Every team we go to, you see the signs. Everyone loves him, and everyone loves playing against him,” said Filip Gustavsson, who started in goal for the Wild. “I think no one really would say anything bad about him.” The mutual respect between Fleury and Ovechkin highlights the unique bond that develops among players over years of competition.
As Ovechkin continues his pursuit of Gretzky’s record, with 28 of his 889 goals coming against Fleury, the rivalry between the two players has become one of the most memorable in NHL history. Their battles on the ice have captivated fans and defined an era of hockey. Fleury’s legacy is firmly established, and as he prepares to retire, moments like this serve as a testament to his impact on the game.
Fleury’s career began in 2003 when he was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins. He quickly became known for his acrobatic saves and charismatic personality. Over the years, he has played for the Penguins, the Vegas Golden Knights, and now the Minnesota Wild, leaving a lasting impression wherever he goes. His playoff success, highlighted by three Stanley Cup victories with the Penguins, has solidified his status as one of the all-time greats.
As the NHL season progresses, the Wild will likely pay tribute to Fleury in a manner befitting his contributions to the sport. The team has recognized his influence on and off the ice, and his legacy will undoubtedly be celebrated by fans and players alike. “It’s special to have that when you quit hockey someday, that you played with that guy,” Brodin reiterated, capturing the sentiment felt by many.
Meanwhile, Ovechkin’s chase for the goal-scoring record continues to draw attention. With each game, he inches closer to the historic milestone, and the hockey world watches with bated breath. The Capitals’ captain remains a formidable force in the league, and his respect for players like Fleury speaks volumes about his character.
In conclusion, the NHL is not just about competition; it’s also about respect and honoring the game’s legends. Alex Ovechkin’s gesture towards Marc-Andre Fleury encapsulates the spirit of sportsmanship that defines hockey. As Fleury prepares to hang up his skates, moments like these will be cherished by fans and players alike, reminding everyone that the bonds formed in the sport extend far beyond the ice.
