Hawks Move On, Dismantle Luongo

That red Ferrari (see last article) popped the clutch last night and never looked back. Exactly 365 days after eliminating Vancouver from last year’s playoffs, this year’s Hawks didn’t disappoint. Controlling the tempo from the get go, Brouwer and the boys cruised fairly easily to a 5-1 victory and their second consecutive Western Conference Finals appearance.

The big story in this one you ask? It has to be Roberto Luongo and his inability to establish himself as a truly elite goaltender. Yea he won gold. Yea he’s great in the regular season. But when his team has needed him the most (the playoffs) Luongo has been completely dismantled. With Roberto in net, the Hawks lit the lamp 16 times at the GM Place. That’s inexcusable for a guy who wants to be considered the best in the game.

But don’t worry Canucks fans, it’s not like you’re stuck with him. He only has 12 years left on his contract that will have him making over ten million dollars next year. He certainly deserves it. Oh and if that doesn’t sting enough, let me remind you that you anointed him captain in order to get him to sign that contract. Nothing screams leadership like a guy who is way overpaid that folds like an origami swan when the pressure is on.

With the way these two teams are built, it’s not crazy to think we could see this series happen 3 or 4 more times in the next 5 years. As long as Luuuuuuuuuu is in net, I like the Hawks chances.

Check back later this week for a Hawks vs. Sharks Preview