Indiana Pacers goalkeeper Caris LeVert could return from a prolonged absence during the team’s three-game outing, which 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, has been out since a post-trade physique revealed a small kidney mass.
“Caris LeVert played in practice today. He’s getting closer and closer, he won’t last long,” coach Nate Bjorkgren said on Thursday. He added that there was a “chance” that LeVert could play during the trip.
The Pacers play the Phoenix Suns on Saturday and the Denver Nuggets on Monday.
LeVert underwent surgery to treat renal cell carcinoma of his left kidney in late January. Pacers said at the time that no further treatment was needed.
After a strong start to the season, the Pacers have struggled since Oladipo’s trading and desperately need a third creator behind Malcolm Brogdon and Domantas Sabonis.
“[LeVert] looks good. To me, he seems ready to play, “Brogdon told The Indianapolis Star.” A complete game changer. He changes the research report. Having another dynamic marker on the floor can really help this team. “
LeVert, 26, averaged 18.5 points and six assists in 12 games for Brooklyn before trading.