Indiana Pacers guard Caris LeVert could return from a prolonged absence during the team’s three-game trip that begins Friday against the Los Angeles Lakers.
LeVert, who was acquired in the four-team trade that sent James Harden to the Nets and Victor Oladipo to the Rockets, had been out since a post-trade physique revealed a small mass in his kidney.
“Caris LeVert has played in practice today. He’s getting closer and closer, it won’t take too long,” coach Nate Bjorkgren told coaches on Thursday. He added that there is “a possibility” that LeVert may play during the road trip.
The Pacers play the Phoenix Suns on Saturday and the Denver Nuggets on Monday.
LeVert was operated on to treat left kidney cell carcinoma in late January. The Pacers said at the time that no additional treatment was needed.
After a strong start to the season, the Pacers have had problems since they traded Oladipo and desperately need a third creator behind Malcolm Brogdon and Domantas Sabonis.
“[LeVert] it looks good. To me, he seems ready to play, “Brogdon told The Indianapolis Star.” A complete change of game. Change the scan report. Having another dynamic goal scorer on the ground can really help this team. “
LeVert, 26, averaged 18.5 points and 6 assists in 12 games for Brooklyn before the negotiation.