BOSTON -- The long-awaited return of Rajon Rondo could happen as soon as this week, Boston Celtics coach Brad Stevens said Monday.

Rondo, who has been out nearly a full year after tearing his ACL last January 30 against the Miami Heat, is rapidly. After Rondo rejected reports that he was planning a return against the Lakers this Friday in Boston, Stevens told reporters that he cannot rule out this week for a return to action.

Asked whether Rondo could return this weekl, Stevens saidf, "I'd be guessing. I think you could say possibly, but it wouldn't be anything where I would be speaking with certainty."

Stevens explained that the situation with Rondo is fluid, saying, "Nothing concrete. I get the impression it's sooner rather than later."

Stevens was sure of one thing, telling reporters Rondo's return is, "Not tonight, I will speak with certainty."

Rondo, who says he will return before the All-Star break, has just 12 more days before Paul PIerce and Kevin Garnett make their return to Boston.

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