Marc-Andre Fleury achieved a significant milestone, tying Patrick Roy for the second-most wins in NHL history, as he led the Minnesota Wild to a 4-3 overtime victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Fleury, now with 551 wins, played a crucial role in the win, making 25 saves. Martin Brodeur holds the record with 691 wins.
The game was intense and closely contested, with Fleury making a remarkable full-extension glove save in overtime. Marco Rossi then scored the winning goal for Minnesota (17-17-4), ending the team’s four-game losing streak with a one-timer in overtime.
Fleury expressed his happiness about the win and the honor of catching up with Patrick Roy. Marcus Johansson tied the game for the Wild late in the third period, leading to Fleury’s heroic save and Rossi’s winning goal.
Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point led the Tampa Bay Lightning, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent the loss to the Boston Bruins.
Cole Sillinger was a standout for the Blue Jackets, scoring a hat trick, including the go-ahead goal in the third period. Adam Boqvist, returning from a 13-game absence due to a shoulder strain, had two assists, and Daniil Tarasov made 33 saves for Columbus (13-19-9).
The game saw multiple lead changes, with the Blue Jackets initially taking the lead in the first period and then regaining it in the second. However, the Wild fought back each time, with Matt Boldy scoring two power-play goals and Brock Faber recording three assists.
Despite the loss, Blue Jackets’ Adam Boqvist and Cole Sillinger remained optimistic about the team’s potential. Wild coach John Hynes praised the impact of rookies Faber and Rossi in the game.
With this win, Fleury continues to solidify his legacy as one of the NHL’s all-time great goaltenders. The Wild’s ability to bounce back and secure the win reflects their resilience and determination.