Luongo on being a backup: “I’ve put my ego aside”

It would be really easy for Roberto Luongo to get upset about his situation in Vancouver. After all, we’re used to seeing star athletes throwing a fit to get what they want and Luongo could’ve done just that to ensure his starting job or to be traded.

Instead, he’s being the ultimate pro about being a backup goalie to Cory Schneider. As Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province hears it, Lu is being the grownup in the situation.

“Of course, but I’ve put my ego aside here and I’m trying to work hard and do my best and be ready,” he’s said. “We all know, and it goes without saying, that both Cory and I want to play. We’re competitors but I’m not going to put myself ahead of the team.”

This kind of professional attitude on top of becoming a Twitter superstar have helped alter Luongo’s image in Vancouver. Instead of being nearly run out of town on a rail, he’s a sympathetic figure. After how past playoff runs have ended, who would’ve expected that to happen?