Steven Stamkos skates a month after surgery

Canadian ice hockey superstar Steven Stamkos has taken a giant leap toward potential recovery in time for Sochi 2014.

The forward for Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League skated for the first time in open view since having an operation on a broken tibia on November 12. When he was stretchered off the ice in Boston a day earlier, it was initially feared that Stamkos could miss months of action, including his first chance at Olympic glory for Canada in February.

See also: Stamkos injured, who can take his place? 

It is obviously too early to tell what this morning skate means for a possible return to action for Stamkos. According to the Tampa Bay Times, there is no timetable yet for the two-time Maurice Richard Trophy winner to see NHL minutes.

Canada holds its collective breath.