Report: Capela set to return vs. Lakers after 15-game absence

The Houston Rockets are nearing full health.

Center Clint Capela returned to practice on Tuesday and, barring a setback, is expected to play Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

The fifth-year big man has missed the past 15 games after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb. Houston has used a combination of Nene and Kenneth Faried to fill Capela's void.

The Swiss native was wearing a wrap on his right thumb but practiced all weekend with no issues, according to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.

"I feel ready to be back with the team," Capela said, according to Feigen. "Going to have two practices. I should be ready to go. I feel ready to go. I played a couple times. It felt great. I'm ready."

The 24-year-old is averaging career highs in points (17.6) and boards (12.6) across 42 appearances this season. Capela signed a five-year, $90-million contract to remain in Houston this past summer.

The Rockets sit fifth in the Western Conference with a 33-24 record.