Ryan Kelly is "really close" to returning, he told the Los Angeles Times before Tuesday night's game.

Kelly is "really close" to returning, he told the Los Angeles Times before Tuesday night's game.

Analysis:

Kelly returning would be key for the Lakers, who are now without rookie Julius Randle, who fractured his right tibia in the season opener. Kelly would be eligible to return in the Lakers' next game on Friday versus the Clippers. If he plays, he'd likely back up Carlos Boozer.