Since joining the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2008, Steven Stamkos has undoubtedly been one of hockey’s brightest stars, and has certainly been the face of the Lightning – a franchise which, in large part thanks to him, has become a model for the rest of the NHL.

There is a crucial caveat, however; Stamkos is only a top player when he’s on the ice, and he hasn’t been staying on the ice much lately.

The problem manifested itself again on Tuesday night in Detroit, as Stamkos had to leave the game after being entangled in the boards. He was visibly limping off the ice.

Two days later, he went under the knife to repair a torn lateral meniscus in his right knee. It was Stamkos’ second major surgery of the calendar year.  

Last year, Stamkos missed almost the entire postseason after undergoing surgery to repair a blood clot in his right arm. Despite the setback, the Lightning still awarded him a massive eight-year contract in the offseason.

The ink has barely dried, and already Stamkos is facing at least four months off the ice. Given his history with injuries, the Lightning have to be concerned about the financial ramifications if Stamkos continues to get hurt.

Despite last year’s injury, Stamkos had not missed a beat to start this season. He had already racked up 20 points, good for third in the NHL. Coach Jon Cooper insists he’ll be ready for the playoffs in April, but with Stamkos set to be out until at least March, the Lightning will be fighting an uphill battle just to make it there.

While it’s still a long way away, expect Tampa Bay to be active at the trading deadline to replace the production of Stamkos.

Lightning General Manager Steve Yzerman released the following statement regarding the injury:

“Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos suffered a lateral meniscus tear in his right knee during the team’s game against the Detroit Red Wings Tuesday night and will remain out of the lineup indefinitely. We are in the process of evaluating options for repair and rehabilitation and will release more information as it becomes available.”