Stamkos returns for Lightning in Game 3

Steven Stamkos has gotten the green light.

The Tampa Bay Lightning captain is in the lineup for Game 3 against the Dallas Stars on Wednesday. Stamkos, who hasn't played since Feb. 25 after requiring core muscle surgery, has been dealing with a lower-body injury since the club entered the bubble in July.

Stamkos ranked second on the Lightning in both goals (29) and points (66) through 57 regular-season contests. He scored points in 15 consecutive games before being injured.

The 30-year-old sniper led the team with 10 power-play goals during the regular season. His presence on the man advantage should boost a unit that's been struggling as of late. Tampa Bay buried a pair of power-play markers in Game 2 but hadn't scored on its 15 previous opportunities.

Stamkos has contributed 23 goals and 53 points over 70 career playoff outings.

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