Pilkington suffered a fractured fibula in training last week and is likely to miss the next eight weeks - ruling him out for much of County's run-in as they battle relegation.
"It's a massive blow for us and for Danny," said Ablett. "He was pushing to get back in the team and we'd seen glimpses of what he can do in previous games.
"It's disappointing because it was quite an innocuous thing that happened in training and I feel sorry for Danny because it was an important stage of the season for him.
"We're sorry for us as well because he provided a lot of quality when he came on the pitch. He's young and he's got a lot to learn but we wanted to work with him because he's definitely got ability."
Ablett, meanwhile, is hoping to have captain Johnny Mullins - who has again been linked with a loan move to Swindon Town - available for tonight's trip to Bristol Rovers.
Mullins was taken to hospital with an ankle injury after coming off at half-time in Saturday's 4-3 win over Wycombe Wanderers, but there is a chance he will recover in time to face the Pirates.
"We'll do our utmost to get Johnny fit to play," added the County boss.
"He's an integral part of what we are trying to do here and he's our captain as well."
Bristol Rovers league form: DLWLW
Stockport league form: LDWLW
Key opponent: Dominic Blizzard - former Hatter is a lively midfielder
Prediction: Bristol Rovers 2 Stockport 1
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