Hall of Fame goalkeeper Roberto Luongo retired from the NHL in 2019, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t get the itch to return to ice from time to time. Just recently, Luongo decided to strap on his goalie pads and help Florida’s beer league team in a time of need.
According to the story reported by multiple media outlets, Luongo saw an ad on Facebook from a local beer league team looking for a goalie replacement for a playoff game. He decided to respond and, to the team’s surprise, actually show up for the game.
“I need some defense tonight, OK?” Luongo says as he enters the locker room in a video shared on social media.
Luongo went on to show that he still had something left in the tank, helping the team to win 4-2 over the defending champs with five straight titles.
Roberto Luongo played 19 years in the NHL, suiting up for the New York Islanders, Florida Panthers, and Vancouver Canucks. He made five All-Star appearances and still holds the league record for most saves in a season with 2,303. Luongo also ranks second on the all-time list of goalies with the most NHL games played, with 1,044.
After retiring, Luongo joined the Panthers’ front office and recently celebrated a Stanley Cup win. He also served as assistant general manager with Canada’s national team for the 2022 Winter Olympics.
