Miami Heat star LeBron James returned to practice on Tuesday after breaking his nose, and revealed that he hopes to return to face the New York Knicks on Thursday.

The 29-year-old suffered the injury during the win over the Oklahoma City Thunder last week, and was forced to miss the victory over the Chicago Bulls on Sunday.

"Every day is better. It's getting better, but I haven't been hit on it, either. It's too soon, but I think I should be fine enough to go on Thursday. It's only Tuesday, so we've got a lot of time," James said, ESPN reports.

James also revealed that he has been fitted for a mask and will have to wear one for the next few weeks as he looks ahead to returning to action.