Lightning's Steven Stamkos: Considered day-to-day by coach

Stamkos (knee) continues to make progress and head coach Jon Cooper said the star has advanced to day-to-day status, Joe Smith of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis:

Stamkos is nearly at the end of a difficult 4 1/2-month rehab after knee surgery. He is still trying to determine whether any discomfort or uneasiness he's experiencing is a sign he isn't ready to play again or a sign of how he'll feel after playing. It appears a return is near, and the team likely would prefer he make it back soon to help in its push for a playoff spot before it is too late.