Stamkos returns to the lineup for Game 3

This just in, all indications are that Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos will make his long awaited return to the lineup tonight for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final.

Follow all the latest breaking developments below:

Steven Stamkos is on the ice for warmups before Game 3 of the #StanleyCup

His last game was 210 days ago.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) September 23, 2020

It's Stammer time.

Stamkos on the ice for warmups.
— Thomas Drance (@ThomasDrance) September 23, 2020

Not sure if this is just mind games or a tell Stamkos isn’t playing, but all three Lightning alternate captains are wearing jerseys with an “A” on them
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) September 23, 2020

Steven Stamkos takes warmups ahead of Game 3. He's fired up. pic.twitter.com/h1kwyQQI4W
— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) September 23, 2020

Stamkos is skating with Maroon and Paquette in warmups
— Аrpon Basu (@ArponBasu) September 23, 2020

It's official: Steven Stamkos returns. pic.twitter.com/DLYJnrk3jX
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) September 24, 2020

Stamkos' last game was 210 days ago on February 25th. He underwent abdominal surgery on March 2nd and was hopeful that he'd be back in the lineup by April. Of course, COVID-19 happened by then and the league was shut down. When the NHL announced its "Return to Play" plan though, it was assumed that Stamkos would re-join his team in July for training camp. And, technically he did, but Stamkos re-injured himself during training camp and has been on the shelf ever since.

If indeed he plays the rest of the series and the Lightning manage to get past the Stars to win a Stanley Cup, Stamkos will no doubt be a big part of it. Incredible.