Luong-OH NO!

There's no denying that Roberto Luongo is an elite goaltender. He's helped a rather inexperienced Florida Panthers club push for a wild card berth with his play this season, and he was selected an NHL All-Star for his work. While there may still be some fans in Vancouver who hold a grudge, there's no denying that Luongo looks happier and seems to be playing to the best of his abilities in Florida. However, elite goaltenders are still human which means they can err, and Luongo proved tonight that he is human in Florida's contest against the Anaheim Ducks. Needless to say, this one won't be on Luongo's "Greatest Saves" film.

With Anaheim trailing the Panthers by a 5-1 score in the latter portions of the second period, Luongo had done all that had been asked of him in helping the Panthers handle the Ducks to that point. Perhaps he was on auto-pilot as he saw the puck cleared from the Panthers' zone or perhaps he was thinking ahead of the play that happened, but Anaheim's Tim Jackman won't score an easier backhanded shot this season.

Ouch

Make no mistake, this was simple an "oops" on Luongo's part. If the game was closer, it could have spelled disaster, but he can laugh it off at 5-1 on the scoreboard. The Panthers did finish off the Ducks in the 6-2 victory, and I'm sure there was some fun ribbing in the dressing room at Luongo's expense. In any case, Roberto Luongo is a great guy with a fantastic sense of humour, so I'm sure he had no trouble absorbing a little heat from his teammates.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!