Martin Brodeur or Roberto Loungo, Who Starts for Canada?

Even though the birth certificate says that he’s 37 years old and coming off an injury plagued campaign there is no reason to believe that four time Vezina trophy winner Martin Brodeur shouldn’t be the undisputed starting goaltender this coming February for Team Canada at the 2010 Winter Vancouver Olympics. Brodeur who has backstopped the New Jersey Devils to three Stanley Cup titles in his illustrious career was also instrumental in helping Canada win Gold at the 2002 Olympics when he posted a 4-0 record and a sparkling 1.80 GAA. Last year after missing 50 games due to badly injuring his left elbow some were wondering if the durable goalie was beginning to show his age. In 31 games last season this 16 -year veteran who was drafted in 1990 by the Devils won 19 games and had a microscopic 2.41 GAA. “In the last three years I have won two Vezina trophies, so my seasons were pretty good,” Brodeur said in response to those who think he should be replaced as the starter by a younger goalie. “Last year I had five shutouts in 31 games and 19 wins. I was rolling pretty good. I was doing my share, like I’m used to. So I feel like I’m still on top of things, and when the Olympics come around I will be up for the challenge.” Brodeur who last season broke Patrick Roy’s record for all time wins by a goalie will have his strongest competition from 30 year-old Roberto Luongo who was the backup at the 2006 Olympics. Besides for Luongo who plays for the Vancouver Canucks three young emerging talents in Stanley Cup winners Marc-Andre Fleury (Pittsburgh Penguins) and Cam Ward (Carolina Hurricanes) will also get some strong consideration once the Team Canada orientation camp opens up in Calgary. “I’m dealing with the top goalies in Canada, so regardless if you think I’m going to be number one, I still have to go out and prove it,” Brodeur who has 557 career wins said. “This year is going to be a great challenge not just for me, but the other guys too.” Heading into the upcoming season all eyes will be on this veteran goalie who with 101 career shutouts is only two behind the record held by the great hall of famer Terry Sawchuk. My question is how can a legend who has an Olympic gold medal on hi resume along with the Stanley Cups and so many records not be an automatic choice for Canada’s starting goaltender at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.