The video that’s been circulating online is nothing short of heartwarming, showcasing just why Marc-André Fleury is widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in the NHL. In case you missed it, the Minnesota Wild made the day of a very special young boy, 9-year-old Cameron Furst, by signing him to a one-day contract on his Make-A-Wish Day.
But what really stole the show wasn’t just the ceremony or the contract itself—it was Fleury’s incredible kindness and generosity in sharing his time and expertise with Cameron, turning the day into a memory the young goalie will cherish forever.
On Wednesday, Fleury stayed on the ice with Cameron Furst after the Wild’s morning skate. The 9-year-old had already experienced the thrill of stepping onto the ice with an NHL team, but Fleury made sure to give him something far more valuable than just a fleeting experience: a lesson.
As Cameron, who is only in his first year as a goalie but his fourth year in hockey, shared with NHL.com, Fleury was right there, patiently teaching him the fundamentals of goaltending.
Fleury’s lessons were filled with insight and warmth, focusing on essential skills like sliding and getting back up using the right leg—a vital technique for any goalie.
The video of this interaction quickly went viral, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something about watching Fleury, one of the most accomplished and respected goalies in the history of the NHL, taking the time to mentor a young aspiring player that just tugs at the heartstrings.
But as anyone who has watched Fleury over the years knows, he’s not just about the X’s and O’s of goaltending—he’s got a personality that lights up the room. That was on full display during this interaction as well. Fleury, being Fleury, couldn’t resist throwing in a little bit of humor and fun. As Cameron worked on his skills, Fleury playfully asked him, “Did you tell them you stopped them?” before adding, “Na-na-na-nah, you didn’t score.”
It’s that kind of lighthearted chirping that has made Fleury such a fan favorite over the years. He has a way of making everyone around him feel special, from his teammates to fans and even young players like Cameron. The good-natured joking and camaraderie are just part of what makes Fleury such a treasure in the world of hockey.
And if that wasn’t enough, Fleury promised Cameron that he’d teach him the legendary windmill save next time they were on the ice together. For those who aren’t familiar, Fleury’s windmill save is one of the most iconic moves in the NHL, a dramatic and acrobatic play that has become one of his signatures over the years. It’s clear that Fleury takes great pride in his craft, and he’s more than willing to pass that knowledge down to the next generation.
It’s moments like these that remind us of the profound impact athletes can have beyond their play on the ice. Fleury is not just a goalie—he’s a mentor, a friend, and someone who uses his platform to spread positivity and joy.
This particular gesture toward Cameron Furst is just the latest example of Fleury’s kindness and generosity. It’s hard to deny that, as a player, he’s loved by so many, and it’s even harder to deny that he’s earned that love.
In many ways, the interaction with Cameron also serves as a reminder of Fleury’s enduring legacy in the NHL. The 40-year-old goaltender, now in his final season, has given hockey fans so many memorable moments over his illustrious career.
From his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he won three Stanley Cups, to his years with the Vegas Golden Knights, Fleury has built a reputation not only as one of the best goalies to ever play the game but also as one of the most likable players in the league. His infectious smile, his enthusiasm for the game, and his playful nature have endeared him to fans everywhere.
Earlier this week, Fleury was given a moving standing ovation in Las Vegas, where the Golden Knights hosted the Wild. As the crowd stood to honor him, Fleury couldn’t help but get a bit emotional on the bench. It’s moments like that that show just how much he means to the hockey world.
He’s not just respected for his skills between the pipes—he’s adored for his character, his kindness, and the way he’s always been willing to give back to the community. Watching him react to the heartfelt tribute from the Vegas fans was a reminder of just how beloved he truly is, and how much he’s given to the game.
But as much as we celebrate Fleury’s past, there’s also a sense of sadness knowing that this will likely be his last season in the NHL. At 40 years old, Fleury has said that he’s planning to retire after this season, marking the end of an era in the league.
It’s tough for fans to imagine the NHL without Fleury, but it’s impossible to deny the lasting impression he’s left on the sport. Whether it’s through his incredible saves, his leadership, or his genuine kindness toward others, Fleury has made a mark on the game that will be felt for years to come.
The story of Fleury and Cameron Furst is just one more example of why Fleury is such a special figure in the world of hockey. As his career winds down, it’s clear that Fleury will leave behind not just a legacy of championships and accolades, but a legacy of love and respect from those who were lucky enough to share the ice with him, even if just for a day. It’s no wonder that everyone loves Flower—he’s not just a great goalie; he’s a great person, and that’s something that transcends the game of hockey itself.
