Oct 5, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) waits for a face off against the Chicago Blackhawks during the third period at the United Center. The Lightning beat the Blackhawks 3-2 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

There is finally some good news in a string of news that no Tampa Bay Lightning fan has ever wanted to hear. NHL.com is reporting that Lightning center Steven Stamkos has successfully underwent surgery in Boston to stabilize a fracture in his right tibia.

According to the report, the Lightning expect that Stamkos will return to Tampa on Thursday and begin rehabilitation immediately.

Hearing the word successful is music to my ears. This means that with the proper rest, relaxation, and rehabilitation, we can expect that when Stamkos makes his eventual return to the ice, he will be the same Stammer that Lightning fans have become accustomed to.

Tonight’s game against the Montreal Canadiens will be the first game that Stamkos has ever been forced to miss due to a serious injury, and the first for any reason since his rookie year. Even after taking a puck to the face during a playoff game against the Boston Bruins, Stamkos was able to get patched up and right back out on the ice.

I swear, the TD Garden is cursed when it comes to Stamkos. He always seems to get banged up there.

As most of us are painfully aware, Stamkos was making his way down the ice towards the Lightning’s defensive zone when he collided with Bruins defenseman Dougie Hamilton, which sent him flying to the ice. He continued to slid, and eventually his leg collided with the goal post. If you watch the video carefully enough, you can actually see the moment the break occurred. (Not that you’d want to.)

He tried multiple times to make it off the ice under his own volition; however, it just wasn’t meant to be.

Should you dare, here is another look at the collision.

At this particular juncture, there is no timetable for a return to the ice. As one could expect, this determination can’t be accurately made until he begins his rehabilitation and the doctors can see how his leg is healing.

We here at Bolts By The Bay wish Steven Stamkos a speedy recovery.

Do you think that Stamkos is going to return to the ice better than ever? Who do you think is a viable player to take up the reins in scoring until Stamkos is able to return? Sound off in the comments below and let us know what you think.

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