Steven Stamkos will not play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference final Friday night, but he believes he could make his 2016 playoff debut in this series.
“I feel up to game shape,” the Tampa Bay Lightning captain told reporters after participating in Friday’s optional skate.
“There’s a chance. That’s why I’m putting in the hard work. If there wasn’t a chance, I’d have pom poms out and be a cheerleader.”
#TBLightning Steven Stamkos at optional skate. Never thought wearing blue would create such a buzz. pic.twitter.com/BR9QuBrhL7
— Joe Smith (@TBTimes_JSmith) May 13, 2016
Stamkos, who has been sidelined since undergoing blood clot surgery at the beginning of April, reiterated his frustration at not knowing exactly when he’ll be ready.
The star centre is still using blood thinners. Stamkos said he and his doctors have discussed the option of playing while on blood thinners.
Stamkos also noted that his issue is not as severe as the blood clot problem that prematurely ended the career of Pittsburgh’s Pascal Dupuis.
“Obviously you have to make sure there’s zero risk when you’re going out there playing,” Stamkos said.
Anton Stralman, Tampa’s injured top-pairing defenceman, skated Friday as well. He, too, will not be available for Game 1 but could return later in the series.
“It’s a process. It’s getting a little better every day,” Stralman said. “I try to push it a little bit harder, and so far so good.”
The Penguins host the Lightning in Game 1 of their series at 8 p.m. ET Friday night.