Tampa Bay Lightning star center Steven Stamkos arrived at Consol Energy Center with the group of Tampa Bay players who are dressing tonight and speculation is rampant that Stamkos will make his return to the lineup tonight.

Moments ago Lightning coach Jon Cooper refused to answer questions about his lineup but did say this about Stamkos — “if he’s in the lineup it’s our best foot forward. If he’s not, it’s because he’s not eligible to play.”

We’ll find out for certain in about an hour during warmups.