The Edmonton Oilers' quest for a reliable goaltender has taken an unexpected turn, with a surprising new contender emerging in the Marc-André Fleury sweepstakes. The Oilers, who recently acquired Tristan Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins, are facing renewed uncertainty in net due to Jarry's injury, thrusting them back into the market for a veteran presence. While Edmonton has been considered a frontrunner for Fleury, a future Hall of Famer who retired after the 2024-25 season, another team has entered the fray: the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Lightning's interest in Fleury stems from a desire for "insurance" behind Andrei Vasilevskiy, according to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun. Despite Jonas Johansson's steady performance as backup, the Lightning recognize the value of having a seasoned veteran like Fleury in case Vasilevskiy, who has a history of injuries, were to be sidelined during the playoffs.
This development adds a new layer of complexity to the Fleury situation. The Oilers, desperate for stability in goal, can offer Fleury a significant role on a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. Edmonton's General Manager, Stan Bowman, also has a prior connection with Fleury from their time together with the Chicago Blackhawks. However, the Lightning, a perennial contender with a well-established winning culture, can provide Fleury with a different kind of appeal – the chance to join a team poised for another deep playoff run and the possibility of adding a fourth Stanley Cup ring to his already impressive collection.
Fleury himself is reportedly open to an NHL return, provided the "right opportunity" presents itself. Factors that could influence his decision include the potential for playing time, the team's competitiveness, and the overall fit within the locker room. As a Quebec native, the Montreal Canadiens have also been mentioned as a potential destination, offering Fleury the chance to finish his career in his home province. However, the Canadiens' status as a Stanley Cup contender is less certain than that of the Oilers or Lightning.
For the Oilers, the emergence of the Lightning as a competitor for Fleury's services underscores the urgency of their goaltending situation. While Connor Ingram has shown promise, the team's overall save percentage ranks near the bottom of the league. With Jarry sidelined, the Oilers need a reliable option to back up Ingram and provide a veteran presence in the locker room. The acquisition of Fleury would not only address their immediate goaltending concerns but also send a message to Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl that the organization is committed to winning.
The Oilers' pursuit of Fleury is further complicated by the team's recent acquisition of Jarry. While Jarry is expected to return from injury, his performance thus far has been inconsistent, raising questions about his long-term viability as the team's starting goaltender. Bringing in Fleury could create a crowded crease, but it would also provide the Oilers with valuable insurance and flexibility as they navigate the remainder of the season and the playoffs.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Fleury. Does he prioritize a significant role on a team with a clear path to the Stanley Cup, or is he more interested in joining a perennial contender with a strong chance of winning it all? The coming weeks will reveal whether the Oilers can fend off the Lightning and secure the services of the veteran netminder, or if Fleury will choose to take his talents to Tampa Bay.
