Przybilla to return to Trail Blazers

Center Joel Przybilla has agreed to return to the Trail Blazers on a veteran's minimum deal through the end of the season, two sources told SI.com.

The 32-year-old big man spent six-plus seasons with the Blazers before being traded to the Bobcats a year ago, but he played just five games for Charlotte because he hadn't yet recovered from a brutal string of injuries. Przybilla, who started for most of his time in Portland, ruptured his patella tendon on Dec. 22, 2009 and had surgery. Nearly three months later, he required surgery again after slipping in the shower and re-injuring the knee.

It remains to be seen how much he can help at this stage of his career, but Portland (18-16) is clearly in need of more depth down low. Reserve center Kurt Thomas and forward Craig Smith have been handling those duties of late. Przybilla, who has not played this season, had been considering joining the Heat or Bulls, as well.