Steven Stamkos and Team Canada were dealt some unfortunate news on Wednesday, when it was determined that the Lightning forward would not be able to compete in the upcoming Sochi Olympics.
Stamkos – chosen to represent Canada despite still recovering from a fractured right tibia suffered in November – underwent a CT scan on Thursday, when it was determined that the bone had not yet fully healed and he should not be cleared for play.
Steve Yzerman – Lightning Vice President/GM and Executive Director of Team Canada – said “it was a pretty clear cut decision, no gray areas at all.”
“Today is obviously very disappointing for me,” Stamkos said. “I honestly believe that we did everything possible in order to have my injured leg ready in time for the Olympics, but I realize you can’t force healing. I know, in the best interest of my long term health, I cannot represent Canada in Sochi, as much as I would like to. I would like to thank the training staff for their dedication and hard work and I look forward to returning to the Lightning once cleared by the medical team.”
It will be interesting to see which Canadian gets the call to replace Stamkos in Sochi. Martin St. Louis is probably the most deserving, but keep an eye on Claude Giroux as well.
