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Report: LeBron James (Groin) to Return Thursday vs. Clippers After 17-Game Absence

Lakers forward LeBron James will reportedly make his return Thursday night against the Clippers after missing five weeks due to a strained groin, according to Yahoo's Chris Haynes.

James, who's missed each of Los Angeles' past 17 contests, was initially ruled out from playing in the game, but was upgraded to doubtful earlier Thursday.

James last played on Christmas Day, when he injured his groin against the Warriors. The injury stint marked the longest of James's career.

In his absence, the Lakers went 6–11, dropping from fourth to ninth in the Western Conference standings.