Lightning hope Steven Stamkos can return in 7-10 days

Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Lightning hope captain Steven Stamkos can return to ice in 7-10 days

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 4/17/21

The Tampa Bay Lightning placed Steven Stamkos on long-term injured reserve earlier this week. However, it doesn't seem like he'll be out for too long.

According to The Athletic's Joe Smith, Lightning head coach Jon Cooper hopes Stamkos will return to the ice in seven-to-10 days. He is scheduled to come off LTIR on May 2, when the regular season nears a close.

Jon Cooper said they hope Steven Stamkos will be back on ice in 7-10 days and then work his way back and return around when eligible
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithTB) April 17, 2021

Stamkos last played against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 8, leaving in the third period after one shift. In 38 games this season, the Bolts captain has 17 goals and 17 assists.

With Stamkos sidelined, the Bolts will look to keep afloat in the Central Division. Tampa Bay is currently second behind the Carolina Hurricanes with a 29-12-2 record.

Erin Walsh is a Boston sports fan through and through. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bridgewater State University and currently is in pursuit of her Master's Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University. Follow her on Twitter @ewalsh90.

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