Blake Griffin says he's 'very close' to returning

The Los Angeles Clippers may soon have a familiar face back in their lineup as they prepare to try and finish the regular season on a high note.

Blake Griffin told Dan Woike of the Orange County Register that he's "very close" to returning to action. However, Griffin did not give an exact timetable for his return.

Griffin last saw the court on Christmas Day, when he tore his left quadriceps. The 26-year-old later delayed his return by fracturing his hand in an off-court incident with a Clippers equipment manager.

While the Clippers have fared well with Griffin out of the lineup, going 22-7 in his absence, Los Angeles will undoubtedly be thrilled to get the five-time All-Star back on the court.