The Legend of Bobby Lou

When Roberto Luongo first entered the league, I didn't really like him. Perhaps it was because he was overhyped, perhaps it is because once he settled into the league, he was playing for my best friend's favourite team, I'm not really sure. As the years went by and the Panthers continued to toil in mediocirty despite Luongo's stellar goaltending, I grew to at least respect the fact that he was one of the best goalies in the world.

Once he was traded to Vancouver and I actually got to see him play on a regular basis, I grew to not only respect him, but to like his game. While technically sound, he wasn't the robot goalie I thought he was. When he needed to, he could make the acrobatic saves.

As time has gone on, hockey analysts have questioned his ability to win the big game. He never got Florida into the playoffs, and has never gotten the Canucks past the second round. In approximately four hours, we will find out just how clutch he is.

The legend of Roberto Luongo will be written tonight.

At 30 years of age, this is the time for Roberto Luongo. In what could be the biggest game of his career, a quarter final tilt against Canada's arch nemesis, this will be game that determines whether Luongo will be remembered as a hero or a choke artist. With the proverbial torch having been passed with Marty Brodeur sitting out the must-win game against Germany, it is now Luongo's crease.

I can't imagine the pressure he, or any other member of Team Canada, is feeling right now. None of us can. No matter how big a stage any of us average joe's ever find ourselves on in our lives cannot compare to what these guys are feeling right now. The thought of playing an intermural hockey game or a slopitch game in front of a hand full of fans is nerve racking enough for me. If you were to put me on the ice with not only all of Canada, but the entire hockey world, watching, I imagine I would probably pass out. It really amazes me just what these guys can do under that kind of pressure.

I will watch tonight with interest, and watch the legend of Bobby Lou unfold.

-matt