Expansion draft will influence future for Fleury in big way

“I’ve always said this is my home,” Fleury said. “I wish I could play here all my career. I’ll try my best to do good for the team, for the organization and, hopefully, stick around a long time.”

Fleury, however, recognize the realities facing Rutherford and the Penguins when it comes to their long-term plan.

“I think it’s a tough part of their job,” Fleury said. “At the same time, I think they’re in good shape. Matty playing gives us a chance to win games. Bottom line, that’s what matters: Winning games as a team. It doesn’t matter who’s in the net.”

That last item remains the most pressing question as the Penguins prepare for the upcoming season. Fleury, the longest-tenured player on the team, won 35 games during the regular season and was lauded by teammates as the most valuable player.

He was a major reason the team stayed afloat during a tumultuous start to the season.

But he had two concussions toward the end of the season that opened the door for Murray to shine in the playoffs.

Heading into this season, Fleury recognizes a 50/50 split is possible. He pointed out the Penguins have a busy start with 15 games in the first month, including two back-to-backs.

Still, that doesn’t mean he loves the idea of an even timeshare.

“I’m sure Matty’s in the same boat, too,” Fleury said. “We both like to play games, but, if that’s what it is, then that’s what it is. You’ve got to deal with it and just try my best when I’m in there.”

At 31, Fleury still has plenty of good years left. He also knows that younger players who rise to claim jobs from veterans is a reality in the NHL.

“You never know when that’s going to happen, right?” he said.

“I’ve been very fortunate to be here for a long time and, even though I’m still young, still want to be here. It’s normal that it happened, and you’ve just got to be able to deal with it.”

“I’ve always said this is my home. I wish I could play here all my career. I’ll try my best to do good for the team, for the organization and, hopefully, stick around a long time.” — Marc-Andre Fleury, Penguins goalie