Roberto Luongo Sparks Trade Speculation with Comments on Waiving Clause

When the Vancouver Canucks inserted Cory Schneider at goaltender in the final three games of their playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings, you got the feeling that the writing was on the wall for Roberto Luongo. 

Luongo, their starting goaltender throughout the season, was benched for three pivotal games, and Schneider played well, even if the Canucks eventually fell.

Now, according to Elliotte Freidman of CBC.ca, Luongo has told reporters that he would waive his no-trade clause if asked.

The 33-year-old Luongo gave up eight goals in the Canucks' first two games against the Kings. Schneider, on the other hand, was the Canucks' top performer when he was inserted in the final three games, giving up a combined four goals. 

Schneider, who was selected No. 26 overall in the 2004 NHL draft, has shown great promise. Given his recent play, it may be time to trade the veteran in Luongo.

Canada.com speculates that the Toronto Maple Leafs would be a good fit for Luongo, a team whose struggles on defense have been well-documented. While Luongo didn't perform well in the playoffs, he's still a proven veteran who would be an upgrade at goal in Toronto. 

Some might argue that James Reimer, current goaltender for the Maple Leafs, should be given another crack at it after an up-and-down season in which he dealt with concussion issues. But Reimer is a wild card, while Luongo has proven he can generally get it done.

You don't pull your veteran goaltender in the playoffs if you are confident in him as your starter. The Canucks need to move on with Schneider and get something in return for Luongo.

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