Ever since Roberto Luongo re-joined the Panthers, he’s seemed particularly catty. That’s a joke, boy, you missed it, flew right past you.
The 2017 Winter Classic was played today in St. Louis, featuring the Blues and, as mandated by the CBA, the Chicago Blackhawks. It almost didn’t happen, though, as unexpected rain threatened to delay or even postpone the game.
The unseasonable warm weather gave Roberto Luongo, aka. @strombone1, the opportunity to be, as the kids say, savage AF.
Man it would suck if these guys waited their whole lives to play in an outdoor game and then couldn't to due to unforeseen circumstances
— Strombone (@strombone1) January 2, 2017
For those of you missing the joke, Vancouver hosted a pseudo-outdoor game, the Heritage Classic, during the 2013-14 season. Luongo was slated to start the marquee game, as you would expect for a Hall of Fame goaltender. Then John Tortorella — remember him? — decided to go with his gut and start Eddie Lack instead.
Unsurprisingly, Luongo was none too pleased. Neither was the Canucks fanbase, who chanted for Luongo during the game, which the Canucks lost. For Luongo, it was the last straw, and he demanded a trade, which he got.
Was the Heritage Classic the only reason Lu wanted out? Of course not, but it played a big role. Luongo himself said, “If I would have played I probably would maybe still be here. Who knows?”
It’s not the first time Luongo has made a hilarious reference on Twitter to that ill-fated day. Two years ago, the Canucks put Luongo’s Heritage Classic gear up for auction to benefit the Canucks for Kids Fund. Luongo promoted the worthy cause, but couldn’t resist a zinger.
@VanCanucks @Canucksforkids great deal here for a great cause! Plus they're like brand new, never been used.......
— Strombone (@strombone1) January 19, 2015
It’s entirely possible that I miss @strombone1 being on the Canucks more than I miss Luongo being on the Canucks.
