Fleury bids adieu to Pittsburgh: 'Some of the best years of my life'

Marc-Andre Fleury said farewell to Penguins fans Tuesday in what was almost certainly his final game in Pittsburgh.

The 39-year-old Wild goaltender, who plans to retire at the end of the season, stopped 26 of 29 shots in Minnesota's 5-3 victory versus his former longtime club.

The crowd at PPG Paints Arena stuck around following the final horn to serenade the beloved goalie with chants of "Fleury! Fleury!" as he was named the game's first star. The netminder then gave his stick to a lucky fan in the crowd donning his old Penguins jersey.

Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang also stayed out late to congratulate their old teammate.

Fleury was visibly emotional during his postgame interview while getting more chants from the crowd.

"I feel very fortunate. Thank you, guys," Fleury said. "Those were some of the best years of my life, I really appreciate it. It's so hard to say bye, but thank you so much."

He choked up more while speaking to media in the dressing room after the game.

"Hard to believe that's the last time," Fleury said, his voice trembling. "I told you I've gone soft."

He added: "I'm so appreciative from the bottom of my heart."

Fleury received a standing ovation during the first TV timeout when a video tribute aired on the jumbotron.

A noted prankster, the video featured some of Fleury's best practical jokes throughout his career.

The Penguins drafted Fleury first overall in 2003, and he won three Stanley Cups during his 13 seasons in Pittsburgh. He's the franchise's all-time leader in goalie games played (691), wins (375), goals-against average (2.58), and shutouts (44).