Shaq close to returning, Malone not

O’Neal has been sidelined the past 12 games, while the Lakers have struggled in his absence going just 5-7.

The All-Star center, who was examined Tuesday morning by a club doctor, was cleared to practice. O’Neal went through a light workout and according to reports felt good. He will be examined by the team doctor again on Wednesday and plans on playing if he receives clearance.

In 27 games this season, O’Neal is averaging 20.0 points, 11.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per contest.

Malone, meanwhile, isn’t expected to return until after the All-Star break. He is likely to miss another nine games with a knee injury. Malone missed only 10 games in his first 18 seasons in the NBA, all with the Utah Jazz.

Since joining the Lakers in the offseason he has sat out 16 contests since being injured. Los Angeles is 6-10 in those games.

Lakers’ All-Star guard Kobe Bryant also missed practice for the second consecutive day due to soreness in his shoulder.

Bryant did not speak to reports after the practice, but he is expected to play in Wednesday’s contest.

The Lakers are 26-15 good for second place in the Pacific Division. After hosting Seattle, the Lakers will welcome Minnesota on Friday night.