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Al Jefferson (calf/suspension) returned to practice Monday.

Jefferson (calf/suspension) returned to practice Monday, Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis:

Jefferson has been sidelined since the end of November with a calf injury, and he was slapped with a five-game suspension for violating the league's anti-drug policy last week. Per NBA rules, Jefferson cannot begin serving the suspension until he returns to "active" status, so participating in Monday's practice is certainly a step in the right direction. Per coach Steve Clifford, Jefferson will continue to practice with the team throughout the duration of the suspension, but at this point it's unclear exactly when he'll begin serving the ban.

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