Panthers hire Roberto Luongo to lead goalie department

The Florida Panthers have announced that they’ve created a group of goaltending experts to spearhead the team’s goalie development going forward, and Roberto Luongo is leading the department. The team therefore takes an innovative approach to netminder development and coaching with the creation of a new goaltending excellence department. 

Luongo will work in collaboration with Panthers goaltending coach Robb Tallas, his brother and Florida’s AHL goaltending coach, Leo Luongo, and ex-goalie coach Francois Allaire. Allaire’s name should ring a loud bell, he who joins the team as a goaltending consultant after he worked with the legendary Patrick Roy early in his career and helped to guide Jean-Sebastien Giguere to a Conn Smythe Trophy back in 2003. Allaire retired from coaching in 2017, but now returns in a different role to help the Panthers. 

“I’m proud and excited to be part of this encompassing new goaltending operation,” Allaire said. “Our collection of goaltending knowledge is extraordinary, and our players will have the benefit of a collaborative, united coaching experience throughout their careers with the Panthers.”

Luongo, who is entering his second season with the Panthers as a special advisor to the general manager, is excited about the new opportunity to work with the other coaches and pass along their knowledge. There is no doubt Lou has a lot to offer there!

“This new endeavor for our organization is incredibly special. … Each member of our goaltending excellence staff has traveled a different path and possesses a unique set of experiences and knowledge,” Luongo said. “I have a tremendous deal of respect for this group and couldn’t be more excited for the future.”

So much is expected from Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, who is among the league’s highest-paid goalies. He however put up one of the worst statistical seasons of his career in 2019-20, his first campaign in Florida. We can assume he will only benefit from this talented group of goaltending experts. 

Top goalie prospect Spencer Knight, who was selected 13th overall in 2019, will also get a lot out of this new department. 

Great work, Panthers! We now expect a lot from Bobrovsky!