As the NHL’s April 3 trade deadline approaches, a myriad of rumors will continue to fly around the league until its passing.
One of those, the Roberto Luongo-to-Toronto rumor, has picked up some steam recently after lying dormant for some time.
Luongo has played just once (in relief) since March 18 and has only started 14 games for the Canucks this season. Luongo’s lackluster play and the emergence of Cory Schneider has thrust the 33-year old into a backup role.
The Maple Leafs have been looking to add a veteran goaltender throughout this season. Luongo and Calgary netminder Miikka Kiprusoff have reportedly been on Toronto’s wish list.
However, consummating a deal might prove to be difficult for Toronto. The Maple Leafs are very unlikely to give up some of their younger prospects given the way that Nazem Kadri has performed. Additionally, taking on a large contract such as Luongo’s could make management hesitant especially when James Reimer and Ben Scrivens have not played all that poorly for the Leafs.
Either way, it would make sense for Vancouver to trade Luongo somewhere given his expensive salary and the success of the younger Schneider. Boston fans will certainly be keeping their eye on the Canucks leading up to the trade deadline to see where their favorite goaltender will wind up.
