Marc-Andre Fleury returned to the Golden Knights' lineup on Tuesday night for the first time since the death of his father, and he led the Golden Knights to an emotional 5-1 win over the Blackhawks.
Tuesday's game was Fleury's first start since Nov. 23. He took a leave from the team following the death of his father Andre on Nov. 27, and returned to practices with the team last Thursday.
Fleury made 28 saves on 29 shots on Tuesday, holding the Blackhawks scoreless until there were just 27 seconds remaining in the third period. He said he felt a little rusty early on in the game, and took a few minutes to readjust to the pace of the game. But he said he felt more calm and relaxed as the game went on.
"I was away for a little while," Fleury told reporters after Tuesday's win. "The first game, always a little worried to see how things are going to go, and I want to do well for the team. I'm happy that everything worked out pretty good today."
Fleury received a larger-than-usual ovation from the Vegas fans before the game.
"I've got so much encouragement from my teammates, people on the team," he said. "The fans in the game tonight, they were very nice to me. It's always nice to get that feeling when you get back on the ice."
It was an emotional night.
"I got to think about him a bunch," Fleury said of his father.
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