Roberto Luongo Discusses Possibility of Leaving the Canucks

In a radio interview on Vancouver's 99.3 the Fox, Roberto Luongo revealed what he has been thinking about the future. (Danny Moloshok)

Many people having been talking about Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo's upcoming appearance in the World Series of Poker. Friday night, he was on the air with Vancouver's 99.3 the Fox to discuss his poker game. When the conversation turned to hockey and his future, Luongo didn't keep a straight poker face. In fact, he laid all his cards out on the table.

Luongo announced over the air, "I think it's time to move on. And I'm okay with that. I had a great six years in Vancouver. It's a really wonderful city. I really enjoyed my time there. Unfortunately, I was not able to bring a Stanley Cup there. Probably my greatest regret. But it'll be remembered for six great years."

In six seasons with the Canucks, Luongo did help lead them to the playoffs five of those years. But he had only 32 wins in 61 playoff games with a 2.53 GAA and a .916 save percentage. The fact that the Canucks signed backup netminder Cory Schneider to a three-year, $12 million deal seems to provide additional evidence that Luongo might be on the way out.

When asked about where he would want to go, Luongo said that there were lots of great cities to play in. However, he gave special mention to Chicago. The Blackhawks definitely seem to be a team he likes. Luongo also said he is open to returning to the Florida Panthers, where he played for five years before coming to Vancouver. One last trade destination that is buzzing among fans and experts alike is the Columbus Blue Jackets. Their disgruntled star Rick Nash wants out as well. A straight-up trade would be unconventional and unlikely, but certainly a possibility.

I believe the decision by Luongo to move on to somewhere else is the proper decision. The window seems to have closed on this Canucks team. Their defeat in the first round to the eight seed Los Angeles Kings is just further evidence of this. While I doubt Luongo wants to go to Columbus, the Blackhawks seem to be a very reasonable possibility. The Blackhawks have the type of pieces available to provide adequate return. If I am reading Luongo's poker face correctly, I believe the Blackhawks is the team he wishes to join.