Kings' Carter cleared to practice after 4-month absence

The Los Angeles Kings are poised to welcome back one of their best scorers in the near future, as forward Jeff Carter has been cleared to return to practice, the team announced Wednesday.

Carter has played in just six games this season. He's been sidelined since Oct. 18, when he was clipped by a skate and suffered tendon damage in his ankle. The injury ultimately required surgery.

The 33-year-old recorded just three assists before being sidelined, but led the Kings with 66 points last season.