Steven Stamkos comes off COVID-19 protocol list

SUNRISE — Steven Stamkos’ stay on the NHL’s COVID-19 protocol list was short.

The Lightning captain came off the list Sunday after being placed on it Friday, the NHL said.

Stamkos posted on Twitter on Friday that he suspected a false positive test result was the reason he ended up on the list. That he came off the list Sunday would suggest that was the case. Players have to have two negative test results over 48 hours to come off the list. They cannot practice, play in games or travel with the team until they do. 

Stamkos missed Saturday’s game against the Panthers because he was on the list. He missed Thursday’s game against the Panthers with a lower-body injury, for which the team said Sunday he remained day to day.

Stamkos was the third Lightning player to go on the protocol list. Backup goaltender Curtis McElhinney spent two weeks on it, and forward Blake Coleman was on the list for two days.

Stamkos leads the Lightning with seven goals and is third with 14 points entering Monday night’s game against the Panthers at Amalie Arena.

• • •

Tampa Bay Times coronavirus coverage

HOW CORONAVIRUS IS SPREADING IN FLORIDA: Find the latest numbers for your county, city or zip code.

VACCINES Q & A: Have coronavirus vaccine questions? We have answers, Florida.

FACE MASKS: Read the latest on guidelines, tips for comfort and long-term wear

GET THE DAYSTARTER MORNING UPDATE: Sign up to receive the most up-to-date information.

THE CORONAVIRUS SCRAPBOOK: We collected your stories, pictures, songs, recipes, journals and more to show what life has been like during the pandemic.

A TRIBUTE TO THE FLORIDIANS TAKEN BY THE CORONAVIRUS: They were parents and retirees, police officer and doctors, imperfect but loved deeply.

HAVE A TIP?: Send us confidential news tips

We’re working hard to bring you the latest news on the coronavirus in Florida. This effort takes a lot of resources to gather and update. If you haven’t already subscribed, please consider buying a print or digital subscription.