Lightning's Steven Stamkos: Out indefinitely with knee injury

Stamkos is out indefinitely with a lateral meniscus tear.

Analysis:

When Stamkos headed back to Tampa Bay to undergo further evaluation Wednesday, his fantasy owners were hoping the Lightning's medical staff would diagnose the star forward with a minor injury. Unfortunately for Stamkos and his owners, it appears the 26-year-old pivot will likely be out long term with an injury that's reportedly tough to heal from. Tampa Bay's training staff is reportedly still evaluating potential rehab and repair options, which may be why Stamkos has been given the dreaded "indefinite" tag, but this is undoubtedly grim news either way. Tyler Johnson will likely get the first crack at replacing Stamkos on the Lightning's first line, with Valtteri Filppula sliding into Johnson's spot on the second line.