Unfortunately, his first stint in the NHL was not as successful as everyone anticipated, as the youngster found himself playing behind an increasingly porous Pittsburgh defense.
After appearing in 21 NHL games and posting a 4-14-2 record with a 3.64 goals-against average, the Penguins eventually sent Fleury back to the Quebec Junior-Major Hockey League where he again found his dominance.
In 10 games for Cape Breton, Marc-Andre regained confidence, going 8-1-1, with a 1.98 goals-against average and .933 save percentage.
He was also a member of Team Canada at the World Junior Championships and posted a 4-1-0 record along with a 1.81 goals-against average, as Canada took home the silver medal.
This season with 27 games played, Fleury is having a solid year for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the AHL. His record stands at a more solid 15-7, with a 2.52 goals-against average and a .906 save percentage.
With a little patience, Pittsburgh may have found their number-one netminder for years to come.
“Fleury has shown all the tools needed to be a big-time goalie,” said one insider. “He will have some growing pains, but his game is mature beyond his age and he’s going to have a brilliant career at the next level.
