Stamkos feels 'a lot better' after minor setback, still hopes to play in Sochi
Steven Stamkos offered the following update after taking to the ice for a morning skate in Toronto on Tuesday.
Steven Stamkos says his healing leg felt "a lot better" today. Less pain than yesterday.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 28, 2014
Stamkos added "It's been tough. I've never gone through anything like this... Mentally, you're a little hesitant (because of the injury)." (via James Mirtle)
While he hopes to be able to return prior to the Olympic break, he acknowledged that's not a certainty at this point.
Stamkos says if he doesn't play any NHL games before the Olympics there'll have to be discussion about playing for Canada.
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) January 28, 2014
Steven Stamkos says he and Steve Yzerman will have an "honest" talk about his status before any Olympic decision is made.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 28, 2014
As per Damian Cristodero, Stamkos said he doesn't necessarily have to play for the Lightning before the Olympics in order to suit up for Team Canada.
However, as head coach Jon Cooper points out, the big picture needs to be examined prior to making any firm decisions.
Jon Cooper says that all of Canada wants Steven Stamkos in Sochi, but the #TBLightning have to "look beyond" that. "This is his livelihood."
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 28, 2014