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The L.A. Clippers could be welcoming the return of All-Star forward Blake Griffin as early as Friday night against the Los Angeles Lakers that will be well ahead of schedule from his sprained MCL injury.
After last night's game against the Kings All-Star center DeAndre Jordan voiced that although he doesn't know much about it, he is hoping that his longtime teammate will be back on the court for Friday's contest against the Lakers, according to our own Tomer Azarly.
#Clippers DeAndre Jordan on Blake Griffin possibly returning Friday – 'I hope he comes back Friday. It'll be huge for us. Blake's the backbone of our team, he's the offensive leader. He's everything to us. If he's back Friday then it'll be great for our team.'
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) December 27, 2017
In the 14-game absence, the Clippers have hovered around a .500 mark holding a 6-8 record over the last few weeks. The return of Griffin would give them their top offensive option back in the mix as he leads the team with 23.6 points per contest in 19 games played this season.
It will also help mask the loss of veteran forward Danilo Gallinari, who is one of L.A.'s top scorers in his first campaign with the team. and is currently dealing with a partial tear of his glute. Griffin's return will help bring stability to the frontcourt while also allowing for his teammates such as Austin Rivers, Lou Williams, and even DeAndre Jordan be more effective offensive contributors.
The fact that Griffin was sent down to practice with the organization's G-League affiliate, AC Clippers, on Wednesday morning should be a clear indication of how close he is to returning. On top of that, head coach Doc Rivers had voiced on Tuesday that he believes that Griffin could be back on either Friday or Sunday against the Charlotte Hornets.
The Clippers have been able to remain just outside of the playoff picture in his absence sitting just three games back of both the Portland Trail Blazers and New Orleans Pelicans for the final two spots.
