Stamkos: Regular-season return 'probably not looking that good'

It appears unlikely Steven Stamkos will dress in one of the Tampa Bay Lightning's final three games.

Stamkos spoke to reporters in Toronto ahead of his club's do-or-die contest against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he admitted a return to the lineup is becoming less likely. A loss means the Lightning are eliminated from postseason contention.

Lightning head coach Jon Cooper confirmed Stamkos would miss Thursday's contest, while Tyler Johnson, who's suited up in the last two games, will be a game-time decision.

Stamkos has been out since Nov. 15 with a knee injury and has nine goals and 20 points in 17 games.