The Athletic: One Specific Canadian Team Tied to Marc-André Fleury

The Edmonton Oilers were linked to Marc-André Fleury in a new report from The Athletic.

The Oilers' path ahead of next season is fairly clear-unless a veteran star goalie unexpectedly comes back into play. And one name continues to surface: Fleury. Yes, he's retired. But yes, Edmonton should still knock on that door.

Stan Bowman might not have many cards left to play. The goaltending duo of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard is serviceable, but if the Oilers want to chase a Stanley Cup, adding a future Hall of Famer like Fleury, even just for a season, could be the missing ingredient.

Joe Smith of The Athletic wrote:

'Fleury only spent 3 1/2 seasons with the Wild, but it was enough to help change their culture. If and when they ever do go on a big playoff run, his fingerprints will be all over it. He raised their level of competitiveness in practice. He taught them how to handle adversity.'

Skinner could learn a lot from Fleury's presence. At worst, Fleury becomes a calming locker room influence and a playoff contingency. At best? He steals a few key games down the stretch and reminds everyone why he's second all-time in NHL wins.

'I think having the respect of my teammates is very important to me. I always want to win, and I try to battle in practice and games If you can have their respect, and from your peers, I think that means a lot to me.'

Of course, Fleury hasn't publicly shown interest in returning. After 21 seasons, he's focusing on family and possibly a future role with the Wild:

'I feel like I'll have to try different things. But I think my first thing though is I want to be home more.'

But that doesn't mean the Oilers shouldn't ask. Scotty Bowman built a contender around Glenn Hall and Jacques Plante after both had retired. Stan Bowman might be looking at a similar opportunity.

Fleury is a legend. Edmonton is chasing history. The door may be closed, but it's worth knocking on.