The beloved Marc-Andre Fleury, known affectionately as 'The Flower', is making a triumphant return to his roots with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The iconic goaltender has signed a professional tryout (PTO) and will take the ice during the team's exhibition game on September 27 against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

However, this isn’t a comeback in the traditional sense—Fleury isn't reversing his retirement announcement from earlier this year or gearing up for another full NHL season. Instead, his return is intended to provide a sentimental opportunity to celebrate and reflect on his illustrious career with the franchise that saw him win three Stanley Cups. Penguins' General Manager, Kyle Dubas, expressed the organization’s pride in welcoming Fleury back, highlighting not only his extraordinary skill but also his integral role in the community of Pittsburgh.

"Marc means so much to our team, our fans, and the City of Pittsburgh because of the person he is and the example he set," Dubas stated. This moment is particularly special for both Fleury and the Penguins, transforming into a beautiful farewell to the loyal fans of black and gold.

Fans shouldn’t anticipate Fleury battling for a spot against current goalies Tristan Jarry, Joel Blomqvist, and Arturs Silovs for the upcoming season. Still, the emotional weight of this occasion is undeniable, igniting excitement among Penguins supporters who hold Fleury dear to their hearts.

A future Hall of Famer, Fleury is the all-time leader for Pittsburgh in wins, starts, and goals-against average (with a minimum of 50 starts). He was drafted first overall by the Penguins in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft and was pivotal in the team's 2009 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. He later helped secure back-to-back championships in 2016 and 2017, even as his departure came with the expansion of the Vegas Golden Knights.

Now, with a PTO in hand, Fleury’s return is set to be a nostalgic moment filled with appreciation and admiration as he dons the Penguins jersey one last time, bringing closure to an incredible chapter in both his career and in the history of the franchise.