Lakers PG Ball expected to return Friday vs. Mavericks
The Los Angeles Lakers say they will officially firm up the status of point guard Lonzo Ball on Friday, but the Big Baller Brand is already spreading the word: Ball will return for Friday's game against the Dallas Mavericks.
The Big Baller Brand announced the news on its Twitter account on Thursday: "Zo returns from injury and will play for the Lakers tomorrow," the tweet read in part.
Ball has been sidelined since Jan. 13 due to a sprained MCL in his left knee. The rookie has missed the last 15 games.
The Lakers said Ball was a full participant in Thursday's practice, and coach Luke Walton said the training staff will make the decision. It is expected that an official announcement will coincide with the team's Friday shootaround.
Regardless, Ball is itching to return to action.
"If it was up to me I'd be playing," Ball told reporters, "but I gotta get the clearance from (the training staff)."
Forward Brandon Ingram is ready to see Ball back on the floor.
"It's gonna be really fun to have him out there pushing the basketball and putting guys in different spots and giving confidence to other guys," Ingram told ESPN.com. "It's just gonna make our offense even better."
Ball is averaging 10.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 36 games.
--Field Level Media
