Steven Stamkos injury update: All going well

After missing all but 17 games last season, Steven Stamkos is doing well in recovery from a knee injury.

Over the first 17 games last season, Steven Stamkos had 20 points (nine goals, 11 assists). But a torn lateral meniscus in his right knee ultimately sidelined him for the rest of the season, and the Tampa Bay Lightning missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2012-13 season.

There was a lingering possibility Stamkos could return late last season, so his outlook for the 2017-18 season has never really been a question, But his agent told the Tampa Bay Times there have been “no issues” with Stamkos’ recovery from knee surgery last November, and Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman again said he expects Stamkos to be ready for camp and the start of the season.

Over the last four seasons, Stamkos has missed 115 games. A broken tibia in his right leg cost him 45 games in 2013-14, so it’s worth noting last season’s knee injury was to the same leg. Thoracic outlet syndrome, and subsequent surgery, also cost him most of the 2016 playoffs.

Just prior to his hitting unrestricted free agency in July of 2016, the Lightning signed Stamkos to a eight-year, $68 million deal. He’s still just 27 years old and a building block for the future, but three significant injuries over roughly three years’ time has to be a concern for the Lightning.

When healthy, Stamkos is one of the most potent offensive players in the NHL. He is averaging nearly a point per game for his career in both the regular season (582 points in 586 games) and the playoffs (35 points in 49 games), along with being the active leader in shooting percentage (17.1 percent).

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His injuries have been fairly random in nature, but if the greatest ability is availability Stamkos has some work to do going forward. Tampa Bay’s long-term investment in him demands he be on the ice, or a one season blip without a playoff berth may become a longer trend.