Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul is expected to return to the starting lineup on Sunday for a game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Paul, who suffered a separated right shoulder on Jan. 3, has participated in drills and shootarounds, but Clippers coach Doc Rivers wants to see how Paul responds to a full practice on Saturday before giving the final all-clear.
“He did some one-on-ones today at shootaround and looked pretty good, so I think he’s very close,” Rivers said. “I don’t think he’ll play Friday, but he could play after that. He took contact (Wednesday) in one-on-ones, but it’s still not a 5-on-5.”
Paul said he plans to play as a reserve in the NBA All-Star Game on Feb. 16 in New Orleans, where he started his NBA career.
“The All-Star Game is in New Orleans and that’s a part of me,” Paul said. “That’s where I played my very first All-Star Game (in 2008), and any time you have that opportunity, I’m not going to pass it up because it’s not guaranteed to happen next year.”