LA Clippers: Chris Paul could return January 6 vs. Kings

After missing seven of the LA Clippers’ last eight games with a left hamstring injury, Chris Paul could return against the Sacramento Kings on Friday.

The LA Clippers lost six straight games before finding some improved defensive effort and resilience to mentally slap themselves in the face, rediscover some of their early season selves, and win without their two injured superstars Chris Paul (hamstring) and Blake Griffin (knee surgery). First, a 109-98 win against the Phoenix Suns, followed by an impressive 115-106 win against Mike Conley‘s and Marc Gasol’s Memphis Grizzlies.

The latter victory was particularly impressive as the Clippers overcome a slower first half and 10-point deficit at the start of the third quarter to lock in defensively, rally behind Austin Rivers‘ season-high 28 points and seven assists, 22 points from Jamal Crawford, DeAndre Jordan‘s 20 rebounds, and simply play with the collective energy they desperately needed.

However, as much as that has to continue going forward, they may have their Point God back soon, as Chris Paul could return by the end of this week.

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Rowan Kavner of Clippers.com reported the update on Paul:

"Chris Paul, who’s missed seven of the Clippers’ last eight games with a hamstring strain, went through a full workout before Wednesday’s game and could play as soon as Friday against the Kings if he’s cleared."

The Clippers don’t want to rush Paul back, as the last thing they should do is get worried by a recent spell of losses and forget the bigger picture of aiming for a championship. They won’t bring him back too early, but Kavner did add a word from head coach Doc Rivers, saying “Chris looked great today,” when discussing Wednesday’s practice. “Played up and down. He looked terrific. We’ll wait to see how he feels tomorrow.”

Paul said himself that the minute he feels like he can play, he’s going to be on the court in games again. That positivity combined with the comment from Doc bodes well for Paul’s return date, even if he needs slightly longer than Friday’s game against the Kings in Sacramento.

Next: Clippers emphasizing defense without Blake, Chris

For more updates on Chris Paul’s return, Blake Griffin’s recovery and all things LA Clippers, follow along with us here at Clipperholics.