Steven Stamkos' chances of suiting up in Friday's game have gone from slim to none.
The Tampa Bay Lightning captain told reporters he won't play in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference final against the Pittsburgh Penguins, according to Joe Smith of the Tampa Bay Times.
"I think there's a big difference between playing through pain and playing with your life at risk," Stamkos said.
He gave himself a five-percent chance of playing Friday when asked about his status at Thursday's practice, adding there's a "real possibility" he may not play again for the Lightning this season following vascular surgery to treat a blood clot condition that's kept him out for the last seven weeks.
The 26-year-old center took part in Friday's optional skate and has been practicing with the team this week, but he hasn't played in a game since March 31.
"As I said since day one, I wouldn't be working if I didn't think there was a chance," Stamkos said. "There's just also a chance it may not."
