Spittin’ Chiclets Episode 531: A Candid Conversation with Roberto Luongo and Keith Yandle

In a special and engaging Episode 531 of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast, hosted by Barstool Sports' Ryan Whitney and Paul Bissonnette, former NHL stars Roberto Luongo and Keith Yandle join the conversation. Recorded at Keith Yandle’s picturesque Fort Lauderdale home, the episode dives deep into their illustrious careers, memorable experiences, and the camaraderie that defines their relationship.

Welcoming Roberto Luongo to the Show

The episode kicks off with a warm welcome from Ryan Whitney and Paul Bissonnette, introducing Roberto Luongo as a guest who rarely participates in podcasts unless motivated by personal connections. Keith Yandle playfully mentions bringing Roberto on board for his kids' sake, setting a light-hearted tone for the discussion.

Ryan Whitney (00:27): "What up, what up, folks? Welcome to episode 531 of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast."

Humorous Anecdotes: Ice Cream and Alligators

The conversation quickly shifts to lighter, humorous stories, showcasing the laid-back and irreverent nature of the podcast. Roberto shares a hilarious incident involving his son, Pasha, at an ice cream parlor in Delray:

Roberto Luongo (02:53): "He asked for five samples, and the girl's eyes started being like, 'Alright, I think this has to wrap up at some point.'"

Paul and Keith add their own tales of managing Pasha’s overzealous ice cream sampling, highlighting the relatable challenges of parenting hockey stars.

Navigating NHL Careers and Trades

Delving into their professional lives, Roberto and Keith discuss the intricacies of NHL careers, including being traded and adapting to new teams. Roberto recounts his initial reluctance to join the podcast and how Keith’s persistent golfing requests led to his appearance:

Roberto Luongo (01:19): "I don't do podcasts, but I did it for Keith and his kids."

Yandle and Luongo also touch upon the emotional and logistical hurdles of moving between teams, emphasizing the personal impact of trades on players and their families.

Playoff Performances and Team Dynamics

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to reflecting on past playoff runs and team dynamics. Paul Bissonnette shares vivid memories of his 2011 playoff experience with Roberto in Vancouver, detailing pivotal moments and the intense emotions tied to each game:

Paul Bissonnette (69:10): "We were up three nothing and game four, we get blown out in Chicago."

The duo analyzes their performances against rival teams, offering insights into what it takes to excel in high-pressure situations. They highlight key players and memorable plays that defined their playoff journeys.

Personal Growth and Life After Hockey

Beyond the rink, Roberto and Paul discuss personal growth, mental health, and life after retiring from professional hockey. Paul opens up about his struggles with handling criticism and the physical toll of his career:

Paul Bissonnette (124:22): "I had hip surgery a couple years before I retired, and then when I got back, it was just constant maintenance."

Roberto echoes the importance of finding purpose post-retirement, emphasizing the need for players to stay connected to the game while exploring new avenues.

Memorable Interactions and Locker Room Tales

The episode is peppered with entertaining stories from the locker room and on the ice. From battling with stout defenders to navigating humorous miscommunications with coaches, Roberto and Paul share anecdotes that highlight their personalities and the bonds formed through hockey.

Keith Yandle (179:02): "He was looking at me like, what are you doing there?"

These stories not only entertain but also provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and occasional chaos that players experience behind the scenes.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

As the conversation winds down, Roberto expresses his gratitude for being part of the podcast and shares his admiration for Keith’s contributions to the game. The episode concludes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of their shared history and the enduring friendships forged through hockey.

Roberto Luongo (185:31): "Peace."

Notable Quotes:

• Paul Bissonnette (69:10): "We were up three nothing and game four, we get blown out in Chicago."
• Roberto Luongo (124:22): "I had hip surgery a couple years before I retired, and then when I got back, it was just constant maintenance."
• Keith Yandle (179:02): "He was looking at me like, what are you doing there?"

Conclusion

Episode 531 of Spittin’ Chiclets offers a rich, engaging, and heartfelt exploration of Roberto Luongo and Keith Yandle’s careers and personal lives. Through a blend of humor, candid reflections, and insightful commentary on the NHL, the episode serves as a captivating narrative for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Whether reminiscing about playoff glory or navigating the challenges of professional sports, Luongo and Yandle bring authenticity and warmth to the conversation, embodying the spirited essence of Spittin’ Chiclets.