Los Angeles Clipperscenter Ivica Zubac is expected to play Saturday.
The Clippers' big man was dealing with an ankle injury that's kept him out since the team's 103-88 victory over theLos Angeles Lakerson Dec. 20. He was expected to miss several weeks.
Last season, Zubac finished sixth in the NBA Defensive Player of the Year voting and was second for the Most Improved Player award. He was also named to the league's All-Defensive second team.
Here's the latest on Zubac's return:
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Ivica Zubac injury update
ESPN's Shams Charaniareported Friday that Zubac will attempt a return after the center "attacked his rehab" for the Grade 2 ankle sprain he suffered in late December.
Zubac injured his left ankle late in the first quarter against the Lakers as he was attempting to make a play under the basket.
He was seen limping off the court and to the locker room. He did not return to that game.
Ivica Zubac stats
Zubac has averaged 15.6 points, 11.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 28 games played for the Clippers this season.
When do the Clippers play next?
The Clippers will host the Boston Celtics on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. PT).
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Ivica Zubac injury update, Celtics vs. Clippers status