Hornets point guard Chris Paul practiced on Thursday and appears to be nearing his return from a severely sprained ankle.

He has been increasing his workouts and practiced for the first time since hurting his left ankle on Nov. 13 in a game against the Trail Blazers.

The Times-Picayune is reporting that Paul could play as soon as Friday night against the Timberwolves.

"I think the best part of it was just actually being back out here," Paul said after the workout. "I did all right. It wasn't the greatest, but I played through some of the pain. We're just going to see."