With his start Thursday against the Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers goaltender Roberto Luongo became only the third netminder in NHL history to play in 1,000 games.

Only Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur have played more games.

Entering Thursday, Luongo has amassed a 470-376-119 record across 999 games for the New York Islanders (the team that drafted him fourth overall in 1997), Vancouver Canucks, and Panthers.

"On behalf of the Florida Panthers organization I would like to congratulate Roberto on becoming only the third goaltender in NHL history to reach 1,000 games in what has been a Hockey Hall of Fame-caliber career," Panthers general manager Dale Tallon said earlier in the day, according to David Satriano of NHL.com. "Throughout his career, he has proven to be a dominant player and an exemplary leader. His dedication to his family, his teammates and the game of hockey is second to none."

In a league sometime devoid of personal flair, Luongo has provided more than just a productive resume, gracing the NHL with a light-hearted, fun-loving approach that's endeared him to puck fans across the globe.

So it only seems fitting that one of the game's most popular figures sits among the greatest to ever play his position.

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