Rajon Rondo has taken a step closer to his return from a knee ligament injury by practising with the Boston Celtics' development league side, the Maine Red Claws.

The point guard, who has been out for almost a year after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament, hinted earlier this week that he will play tomorrow.

Head coach Brad Stevens told reporters: "It accomplished what we wanted it to accomplish. He's going to go through some shooting. I think it was more about him getting up and down the floor."

Talk of Rondo's return increased yesterday after fellow point guard Jordan Crawford was traded to the Golden State Warriors.