Steven Stamkos injury update: Return is uncertain
Steven Stamkos might not be returning for the Tampa Bay Lightning during the 2016-17 NHL season.
The Tampa Bay Lightning invested a lot of money in their captain Steven Stamkos back in June. They signed him to an eight-year extension worth over $8.5 million a year on average. The Lightning did this despite issues with blood clots. Stamkos tore the lateral meniscus in his right knee back in November. While he is practicing with the team, his return for the 2016-17 NHL season is uncertain.
Steven Stamkos says making progress but not ready yet. Reiterated he doesn't know if he'll return in regular season. "Time is running out."
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) March 23, 2017
Stamkos likely isn’t pushing it too hard since the Lightning are struggling. If they were still hot, as they were earlier in 2017, he would probably be pushing a bit harder. But it’s not worth it for him to try to come back early if Stamkos isn’t going to be playing in meaningful games. Considering his injury history, there’s no reason for him to try to come back before he is 100 percent ready unless the games will mean something.
Imagine the outrage if Stamkos fought to come back before he was 100 percent and he injured his knee again. The Lightning are wisely playing it safe with their captain. He’s no help to them if he’s out, so why risk further injury?
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Stamkos should take this time to rest and make sure he’s 100 percent going into the 2017-18 season. Thanks to the Lightning’s salary cap situation, they’re likely going to lose at least one very good player this offseason unless general manager Steve Yzerman can work a lot of cap magic. However, they still have a very talented roster. Getting Stamkos back at full health would be huge for them, regardless of when it happens. His success is necessary for Tampa Bay to continue winning like they have in recent years.