Arguably the hottest name in the rumor mill in the lead up to the NBA Trade Deadline, center DeAndre Jordan may finally return to the court this week. On Tuesday, Los Angeles Clippers Head Coach Doc Rivers told reporters the 29-year-old is "really close" to returning and he could be back in action for Wednesday's game against the Boston Celtics.

Jordan missed the team's past five games due to an ankle injury he suffered on January 11. The center's last game with 5-plus minutes played took place nearly two weeks ago, which could mean even upon his return this week Los Angeles could limit him to start out.

It would be a smart call for Los Angeles to protect its biggest, likeliest trade asset. Jordan, who could become a free agent after this season, is drawing interest from numerous contenders across the league and a trade could lead to a return that significantly improves the Clippers' future. Of course, Los Angeles could choose to keep Jordan and compete for a playoff spot. As of Tuesday morning, the Clippers sit just .5 game back of the eighth seed and three games back of the fifth seed in the Western Conference.

Jordan's return to the lineup will be a delight for fantasy owners. Once he is completely healthy and returns to his normal role with 34-plus minutes a night, fantasy owners can welcome back a center who gave them 12 points and 15 rebounds nearly every night he takes the court. Pair that with his ability to rack up some blocks and his strong shooting percentage, it's easy to feel the excitement from fantasy owners.