Brook Lopez cleared to return to Bucks' practices after three months / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AFP-Scanpix Credit AFP-Scanpix

Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez is ready to participate in contact drills and five-on-five scrimmages after being sidelined since the season opener because of a back injury that required surgery.

2-pointers this season

54%26,8Points made:26,8Accuracy:53,9%Place in standings:19Record max:38Record min:14Most made 2FGs:Giannis AntetokounmpoTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

"It’s another good, positive step for him on his return to play," coach Mike Budenholzer said before the Bucks’ game Friday night in Chicago.

It’s great news for both Lopez and the team, as he’s been sidelined indefinitely following back surgery to address a bulging disc in his lower back on December 2.

"He will now start having some scrimmage and contact and we’ll organize that," Budenholzer said.

Budenholzer said that the team’s G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd, will likely temporarily relocate from Oshkosh to Milwaukee in order for Lopez to get the practice reps he needs.

33-year-old Lopez played 28 minutes and had eight points, five rebounds and three blocks in a season-opening victory over the Brooklyn Nets. He averaged 12.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks last season while helping the Bucks win the NBA title.

Budenholzer also said Milwaukee hopes to get guard George Hill (sore neck) back in the next week. He has been sidelined since January 28. Hill has missed 12 straight games with neck soreness (including Friday against Chicago), but he’s getting close to a return.

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