Lightning's Steven Stamkos: Back in action for Game 7

Stamkos (upper body) will return to the lineup for Thursday's pivotal Game 7 against the Penguins, Renaud Lavoie of TVA Sports reports.

Analysis:

It's a somewhat strange turn of events, as Stamkos told reporters there had been "no status change" in his health Thursday morning, effectively ruling himself out of Game 7. It isn't clear how big of a role Stamkos will play in Thursday evening's contest, but he skated alongside Ondrej Palat and Ryan Callahan during line rushes in pregame warmups. Fantasy owners hoping to deploy the star forward in daily contests Thursday should remember that he hasn't seen game action since Mar. 31, and will surely need some time to adjust to the blistering pace of playoff hockey. Either way, the Lightning will hope the unexpected return of their captain will help propel them past the Penguins and into the Stanley Cup Finals.