A hot topic around the NHL, especially with Canuck fans, is Roberto Luongo’s decision to skip the All-Star game Sunday in Atlanta.

No, Roberto is not on the injured reserve list (like Sidney Crosby).  Luongo's rationale is clear, his wife is expecting their first child, and the couple plans to spend its time off at its Florida home in Fort Lauderdale.  The Canucks wholeheartedly gave their blessing, and even granted their franchise goalie permission to skip Tuesday's home date with Dallas. He will re-join the Vancouver team Thursday in Tampa.

Luongo should be commended for his honesty in this situation. Many others have hidden behind a so-called “injury” and used the time off to rest. Roberto, on the other hand, has shown character, integrity, and honesty.

Although, Roberto is sincere about his intentions to miss the all start game, his decision has received mixed reviews.  On one hand, his supporters insist that due to his heavy workload with the Canucks, a one week break will provide him with an opportunity to re-energize for the stretch run of the season. In the long term, the “down” time should benefit the Canucks, in their pursuit of the playoffs.

On the other hand, the “nay-sayers” suggest that he is not fulfilling his league commitment, and that his decision is a “me” first attitude. Critics imply that legendary players like Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe and Bobby Hull would never turn down the honor of participating in the game in their era.  

Moreover, many can argue not participating in this game challenges the integrity of the game itself.  It is a showcase for the games brightest stars, and an opportunity to pay back the countless number of fans.  Refusing to participate in this contest could be considered a real slap against those that support the game.

All-star games don't satisfy me, and I believe that time has passed this gimmick.  If Luongo chooses to snub the event, then maybe he is sending a message that it isn't a lot of fun to play in net when it is just a non body contact shooting gallery. It appears the league continues with all-star games because of tradition. Interesting how that tradition continues where other traditions have been scrapped (like the good old fashion tie game-remember them?).

Leagues certainly can use an all-star break, but is a so called all-star game necessary? It's not like television ratings vault through the roof even though most of the top guys are in one building. The CFL terminated it long ago. The NFL organizes the Pro-Bowl, at the end of the season, but it is more or less just a Hawaii vacation with little appeal. The WHL has tried the Russia Challenge instead which also has worn out its welcome, but still beats a so-what game West vs East game.

An alternative can be a short mid season break where first half all-stars are announced, with no official game attached to it.

Back to the six million dollar a year man.  Luongo is one of the few players that can dictate his own agenda. He knows as well as anyone that as he goes, so do the Canucks. So, while the all-stars apply their trade, Roberto has great family time in the sunshine. Somehow, I think Roberto will watch the game on the big screen with a big smile on his face. And really, who can blame him?

From the quote rack:

Contributor Derek Wilken of Calgary (http://smacksport.blogspot.com/)

Comedy writer Janice Hough (www.leftcoastsportsbabe.com) of Palo Alto, California

“Roger Clemens has retained high-powered attorney Lanny A. Breuer, who defended former President Clinton in his Impeachment hearings. Clemens immediately stated, regarding former trainer Brian McNamee, 'I did not shoot steroids with that man'."

Contributor Bill Littlejohn of South Lake Tahoe, California

David Letterman of CBS

Calgary comedian Jeff Funnekotter, on TSN having some 600 hours of tennis coverage in 2008.

Exercise specialist Jack LaLanne, on his 93rd birthday. 

And in case you missed it:

And how was your week?

Hartley Miller is the sports director for radio stations 94X and the Wolf@97fm. He also writes for the PG Free Press. Send along a quote, note or anecdote to hmiller@94xfm.com