Cooper: Lightning 'running out of time'

The Lightning officially hits the midpoint of its season Friday against the Oilers.

But considering Tampa Bay is out of playoff position after 40 games, desperation is finally sinking in.

"We're running out of time," coach Jon Cooper said.

Injuries have played a role in the Lightning's stunning fall, from Eastern Conference champions to entering Thursday five points out of third place in the Atlantic Division.

But captain Steven Stamkos appeared to call out his team, including himself, for one thing that should be automatic: their effort.

"It starts with one simple thing, and that's just our work ethic," Stamkos said. "We have a ton of skill in this room, we have a ton of speed, we have a ton of…