Indiana Pacers president Larry Bird has claimed that Paul George could return to action before the end of the season.

George was initially expected to miss the entire campaign after suffering a double compound fracture in his leg during a training game with his USA teammates last August.

However, the two-time All-Star has stepped up his rehabilitation in recent weeks, and Bird believes that the 24-year-old could lead a late bid for the playoffs.

"It seems like every week Paul is getting better and better," Bird told reporters. "So if we do have an opportunity to get into the playoffs and [George] can get some games under his belt and get ready to go next year.

"We're not going to hold him back if he's able to go out there and play. When you're out like that, you lose something. ... I still think it's important if he's able to play, he should be out there."

George used Twitter to hint that he could be back in action as early as next month.

Indiana are currently 17-32 without George this season.