The Pittsburgh Penguins’ locker room had a small intruder Friday, thanks to Marc-Andre Fleury’s 6-year-old son, James. Before the team’s morning skate, he slipped a fake cockroach into his father’s goalie pads, then targeted Evgeni Malkin by stashing another faux bug in the forward’s tape.
Lighthearted Pranks in the Penguins’ Locker Room
Teammates said the pranks continued elsewhere, with a rubber snake appearing in the bathroom. Captain Sidney Crosby described the youngster as a quick study who is clearly learning from his dad, and Bryan Rust noted he saw Malkin get caught up in the mischief.
The lighthearted scene comes as Fleury, who signed a professional tryout earlier this month, prepares for a final appearance with Pittsburgh in a preseason game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday at 7 p.m. ET. This whimsical moment highlights the strong camaraderie and fun atmosphere within the Penguins organization.
Fleury was the first overall pick in the 2003 NHL Draft and spent 13 of his 21 NHL seasons with the Penguins, winning the Stanley Cup in 2009, 2016, and 2017. His legacy in Pittsburgh is not just about his achievements on the ice, but also the joyful moments shared with teammates and fans alike. As he gears up for this final preseason game, many in the hockey community are reflecting on his incredible career and the unforgettable memories he has created.
Fans will undoubtedly cherish these moments as they support their team during the upcoming season. The Penguins have a rich history of talent and teamwork, and with players like Fleury and Malkin, they continue to embody the spirit of the game.