Just as we all suspected, Roberto Luongo is no longer captain of the Vancouver Canucks.
I'm not all that surprised, this was a controversial, almost laughable move when he was named two years ago.
Mike Gillis had this to say when he first thought to name him. From TSN.ca
"(head coach) Alain (Vignault) and I were looking for someone to lead this team, who inspires his teammates, is respected for his on-ice accomplishments and who embodies the core values we are striving for as a hockey club
Being a gigantic choke job in the playoffs despite having astounding regular season numbers? Yes, that does sound like the core values of Canucks we all know.
But this begs the question, 'Why Lou? Why did you give it all up?'
Mike Gillis (not Luongo) tells us why.
"He confirmed last night and said he'd rather just focus on stopping the puck," Canucks general manager Mike Gillis told reporters Monday. "He's going to continue with all the leadership stuff he did before but not have the same sort of expectations with the media on game days that has happened the last couple of years.
Cause that HUGE weight of having the 'C' painted on your mask didn't allow you to stop pucks? That you had to talk to the media to tell them WHY Chicago dismantled your team for a second straight year? Did the one audacious reporter even ask why your city
threw the team a party after Round One of last years' playoffs? Was the pressure of knowing you had to talk to aforementioned media after the game rattle you? I thought you were one of those 'mentally strong' goalies?
I'd love to know what this 'Leadership stuff' is that Gillis talks about.
The story now shifts to who will get the C next. My personal choice is Ryan Kesler. I have a feeling they'll name Henrik Sedin the next in line. (cause those Art Ross and Hart Trophies that come once ever 10 years are REALLY shiny) They will no doubt over do it, in typical Canucks fashion. (see: Nasuld, Markus. Number Retirement)
More on the New Captain when it's announced.
- Jaye
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