Al Jefferson Injury: Updates on Hornets Star's Groin and Return

Al Jefferson strained his groin during a game versus Milwaukee on Dec. 29. Despite indications that he was set to miss an indefinite amount of time, Jefferson will return to the lineup Monday night.

Continue for updates.  

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Jefferson Will Return to Lineup Monday

Monday, Jan. 19

The Charlotte Hornets announced that Jefferson will play Monday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves:

Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer noted that his playing time will be limited:

The Hornets provided an update on Jefferson's status on Friday noting that he could be returning soon, so it's clear that Jefferson was making progress:

On Wednesday, Jan. 14, Bonnell reported there was no timetable for Jefferson's return to the floor so this looked to be an improvement. Now that he's active, the team will expect him to contribute and gradually increase his playing time in the coming games.

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Jefferson Starts On-Court Workouts

Wednesday, Jan. 14

Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer reported an update on Jefferson's recovery from a strained groin:

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Jefferson out for a Month

Tuesday, Dec. 30

Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer passed along some bad news to Hornets fans regarding Al Jefferson's injury:

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Jefferson Strains Groin

Monday, Dec. 29

Charlotte Hornets star center Al Jefferson left the floor during Monday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a strained groin.

The Hornets had the news on Jefferson's condition:

Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer believes Jefferson could miss a few games:

Jefferson is a rare modern big man with an outstanding post game, and he's been a double-double machine at his apex, making his living down low. What is somewhat discouraging is that Jefferson has a history of injuries, most notably tearing his right ACL amid a career year in 2008-09.

The Hornets have failed to build on the momentum generated from last season's rather surprising run to the postseason. Even in the weaker Eastern Conference, Charlotte's turnaround was impressive, and Jefferson was a big part of it.

Thus, losing Jefferson for a significant period of time will only amplify the Hornets' problems—and fundamentally change the way their half-court offense operates.