Lightning's Steven Stamkos to return vs. Panthers on Monday

Sportsnet Staff @SportsnetFebruary 15, 2021 - 11:38am

Tampa Bay Lightning centre Steven Stamkos. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson)

The Tampa Bay Lightning will have their captain back in the lineup Monday as they look to take the rubber match in their three-game series against the cross-state rival Florida Panthers.

Steven Stamkos told reporters that he feels “good” and is “ready to go” after being placed on the NHL’s COVID-19 Protocol list last Friday.

Stamkos said he had a false positive test result as he expected. He wasn’t able to skate or receive treatment because of protocol the last couple days. He said after this morning’s skate he feels “good,” and is “Ready to go tonight.”

— Caley Chelios (@CaleyChelios) February 15, 2021

The 31-year-old sniper said he received a false-positive test for the novel coronavirus.

Stamkos was a late scratch for the opener of the Lightning’s series against the Panthers on Thursday with a lower-body injury and coach Jon Cooper said he would’ve been held out of the lineup for Saturday’s game regardless.

Jon Cooper said that Stamkos wouldn't have played anyway with his lower body injury. Said it's tough on the player. But dealing with the "mental gymnastics" of a false positive are better than the virus spreading through a team and having to shut down. #Gobolts

— Eduardo A. Encina (@EddieInTheYard) February 15, 2021

In 11 games this season, Stamkos has recorded seven goals and added seven assists.

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