Valanciunas to return after 18-game absence

Toronto Raptors centre Jonas Valanciunas runs up the court after dislocating a finger on his right hand while battling for a loose ball with Orlando Magic forward Andrew Nicholson during first half NBA action in Toronto on Friday, Dec. 21, 2012. (The Canadian Press/Frank Gunn)

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The Canadian Press
Published Friday, February 1, 2013 6:45PM EST
Last Updated Friday, February 1, 2013 6:46PM EST

TORONTO - Jonas Valanciunas was scheduled to return to the Toronto Raptors' lineup Friday against the visiting Los Angeles Clippers after missing 18 games with a broken finger.

The rookie forward broke his right ring finger Dec. 26 against the Orlando Magic, when he got tangled up when battling for a loose ball under the basket.

The 20-year-old Lithuanian, whom the Raptors selected with their No. 5 pick 2011 draft, was averaging 8.1 points and 5.4 rebounds a game.

He started all 28 of his appearances for Toronto.