Chris Andersen (knee) has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Timberwolves, Ronald Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports.

Andersen (knee) has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Timberwolves, Ronald Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports.

Analysis:

Andersen hasn't played since Jan. 4 due to coach's decisions and most recently, a bone bruise in his left knee, but the lengthy All-Star break aided his recovery, and his subsequent trade from the Heat to the Grizzlies earlier this week should enable him to get back on the court in short order. Though the Grizzlies are pressed for depth in the frontcourt with Marc Gasol (foot) out indefinitely, Andersen isn't expected to fill in as his primary replacement. Instead, Andersen is expected to see only minimal minutes off the bench, while Brandan Wright (knee), Zach Randolph, Ryan Hollins, and JaMychal Green also help cover some of the court time at center.