Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul is targeting a return in early February as he continues his recovery from a separated shoulder.
The 28-year-old has missed the last 13 games, but the Clippers have a 10-3 record without him.
Paul was selected as a reserve on the All-Star Western Conference team, and if he does return prior to the trip to New Orleans, he will be in a strong position to feature, Pro Basketball Talk reports.
The Clippers are currently the fourth seed in the West, but they will welcome the return of Paul despite Blake Griffin and Darren Collison shining in his absence.