Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will make his return Thursday night against the Los Angeles Clippers after missing nearly five weeks with a left groin strain, league sources told Yahoo Sports.‬

‪On Wednesday, the organization had ruled him out for the contest, but he was upgraded to doubtful early Thursday. ‬

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‪James’ last game was on Christmas Day on the road against the Golden State Warriors. It was the most time the 15-time All-Star missed due to injury in his 16-year career. At the time of his groin injury, the Lakers stood in the fourth spot in the Western Conference standings.‬

‪While James was sidelined, the team went 6-11 and is now two games back from the eighth and final playoff spot in the conference at 26-25.‬

‪After Thursday night, James’ next game will be where the injury occurred: in the Bay Area. West-leading Golden State will host the Lakers on Saturday.‬

‪James, a four-time league MVP, is averaging 27.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.1 assists this season.‬

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