Rajon Rondo's Los Angeles Lakers return delayed

Rajon Rondo's return to the Los Angeles Lakers has been delayed after he had his right hand drained on Sunday, coach Luke Walton told reporters.

The four-time All-Star has not played since November 14 when he injured his hand the fourth quarter of a game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Rondo stumbled after grabbing a rebound and put his hand down in an effort to break his fall. He had surgery two days later to repair the fractured third metacarpal bone in his right hand.

"There's a little bit of swelling," Walton said Monday ahead of the Lakers' matchup against the Miami Heat. "We're going to shut him down for a few days then get back out after it again."

Prior to the setback, Rondo had been cleared to increase contact last week and was close to rejoining L.A.

According to Walton, Rondo likely will miss at least the next two games, including a matchup with the Rockets in Houston on Thursday.

Earlier this season, Rondo and Houston guard Chris Paul were involved in a physical altercation during the Lakers' loss to the Rockets in their home opener on October 20.

In 11 games played this season, Rondo is averaging 8.5 points, 6.5 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game while shooting 45.5 per cent from the field, including 42.9 per cent from three-point range.

The Lakers also will be without forward Brandon Ingram for at least three more games while he recovers from a sprained left ankle.