Tampa Bay sniper Steven Stamkos takes another major step back from injury

Steven Stamkos seems to have healing powers on a par with his ability to score goals. (Dave Reginek/Getty Images) By Allan Muir It's been anything but baby

Steven Stamkos seems to have healing powers on a par with his ability to score goals. (Dave Reginek/Getty Images)

By Allan Muir

It's been anything but baby steps for Steven Stamkos as he works toward a return from the broken leg he suffered in a full-speed collision with a goalpost back in November. From walking just days after surgery to lacing up his skates one month later, the Lightning winger continues to defy medical timetables in his effort to make it back in time to help Tampa Bay take a run at the playoffs … and maybe chip in with Canada's efforts to win another gold medal in Sochi.

Word of another improbably early step in his recovery is hardly surprising at this point, but it's still worth noting. Especially when it's news like this:

https://twitter.com/LightningTimes/status/423842276256014336

Yeah, that's a big moment because it means that Stamkos is ready to attempt the fast pace of a full-on practice. And if he can handle it again on Friday with no lingering discomfort, that's another big step.