WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Houston Rockets center Clint Capela is expected to return in the game against the Los Angeles Lakers after missing 15 consecutive games, local media reported on Thursday.

Capela, who had a surgery to repair the ligament damage in his right thumb, already practiced with the Rockets this week and the All-Star break gave him more time to prepare for his return.

Capela is averaging career highs of 17.6 points and 12.6 rebounds per game this season. Houston will play against the Lakers on Thursday. Enditem