CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 23: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist #14 of the Charlotte Hornets warms up before the game against the Boston Celtics on December 23, 2015 at Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2015 NBAE (Photo by Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)Kent Smith/Getty Images

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Injury: Updates on Star's Shoulder Surgery and Recovery

Timothy RappJan 6, 2016

Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist had yet to appear in a game this season due to a torn labrum he suffered in early October. However, he is ready to make his debut.

Continue for updates.

TOP NEWS

Kidd-Gilchrist Active vs. Trail Blazers

Friday, Jan. 29

Kidd-Gilchrist has been cleared for game action and will play on Friday against Portland, per Marc J. Spears of Yahoo Sports.

Latest on Kidd-Gilchrist's Practice Status

Tuesday, Jan. 19

The Charlotte Hornets announced Kidd-Gilchrist has been cleared to return to full-contact practice.

Kidd-Gilchrist Comments on Eventual Return

Wednesday, Jan. 6

"No question I'm going to play this season," Kidd-Gilchrist said, per Bonnell. "I'm going to play. It's a matter of when now."

Kidd-Gilchrist's Absence Was Major Blow to Hornets

The 22-year-old has become one of the better defensive players in the league during his NBA career. He averaged 10.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game last year and established himself as a cornerstone of Charlotte's rebuilding efforts over the past three seasons.

"I want to help my team win and I feel I can bring a lot of energy both on the offensive side and the defensive side," Kidd-Gilchrist told Bonnell. "I just want to get back to what I love to do. It’s exciting. Another stepping stone to look forward to. Again, I’ve worked as hard as possible."

The Hornets utilized PJ Hairston and Nicolas Batum in Kidd-Gilchrist's place while he recovered.