Steve Stamkos out for Game 2 against Pittsburgh Penguins

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steve Stamkos will not play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Penguins on Monday in Pittsburgh.

Stamkos had shoulder surgery on April 4 to remove a blood clot and remains on blood thinners to prevent any more clogging.

After Monday morning's optional skate, Stamkos confirmed he would sit out the game.

"I know it's gamesmanship and stuff, I'm not going to be in the lineup tonight," Stamkos said. He added he is still in a "holding pattern" and hopes to be able to play in the series.

Part of his treatment involves taking blood thinners, and Stamkos said doctors might have reservations throughout the playoffs about clearing him to play.

"That's the reality I'm living with," he told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "That's the tough part right now. I'm just trying to give myself a chance so if that day comes where we speak with the docs and we feel as a group -- me, my family -- that it's safe to get back on the ice, I'll [be ready]."

Stamkos, who scored 36 goals in the regular season, has participated in some light contact drills in practice, but is rusty.

The Lightning lead the series 1-0 with Games 3 and 4 in Tampa on Wednesday and Friday.