Grizzlies' Randolph participates in 2nd straight practice, questionable to return Friday

The Memphis Grizzlies have mostly weathered Zach Randolph's extended layoff due to a swollen right knee, but they clearly aren't the same team without him.

They've lost as many games (five) in the nine games he's missed as they did in the 26 games he's played, and their defense has regressed by more than five points per 100 possessions in his absence. 

The good news is Randolph appears to be nearing a return. Out of action since Dec. 20, he participated in his second straight team practice Thursday and is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans. 

At 33, Randolph still operates in peak form when healthy. His 13 rebounds per 36 minutes represent a career high, and his 20.4 PER would be his best since the 2010-11 season. Most importantly, the Grizzlies have outscored opponents by 10.6 points per 100 possessions when he's on the floor, representing the team's best individual net rating.