The Los Angeles Lakers could receive a boost to their line-up sooner rather than later after Rajon Rondo was cleared for full-contact practices.
Rondo has missed several weeks with a finger injury but the veteran guard is nearing a return, the Lakers announced on Friday.
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Lakers star Rondo had surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right hand three days after suffering the injury against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, marking his second surgery on that hand in 2018.
Rondo's first surgery was on November 15 and he returned December 21 to play only three games before suffering his finger injury.
Rajon Rondo has been cleared by team medical staff to return to full contact practice.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 18, 2019
The 32-year-old, who is in his first season with the Lakers, is averaging 8.4 points and 6.7 assists in 14 games this season, while shooting 45 per cent from the field and 35.7 per cent from three-point range.
Los Angeles also are without superstar LeBron James, who strained his groin in the same game against the Warriors and is considered “day to day."
James was cleared to practice next week, though his agent Rich Paul said the 34-year-old will not rush his return on the court.
Los Angeles are 25-21 entering Saturday's game against the Houston Rockets (25-19).
