Rockets star Harden expected to return in game against Timberwolves

WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Houston Rockets should have their star James Harden back in the lineup soon as the team is looking forward to playing him in Thursday's game against the Northwest Division-leading Minnesota Timberwolves, local media reported on Wednesday.

Harden suffered a hamstring strain in an overtime win against the Los Angeles Lakers on Dec. 31 and has been sidelined since then. Houston has gone 4-3 during his absence.

However, the club still has to wait for the league's ruling on the LA Clippers-Rockets incident which might lead to penalties against the All-Star guard.

It's reported that Harden was among the group of players, with Trevor Ariza, Chris Paul and Gerald Green, who attempted to enter Clippers locker room after the game played on Monday.

Harden averages 32.3 points and 9.1 assists per game this season.