Blazers' Holiday to return after 27-game absence

Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday is available for Sunday's matchup against the New York Knicks, the team announced prior to tipoff.

Holiday hasn't played since Nov. 14 due to a right calf strain. He was originally slated to miss at least one-to-two weeks but wound up missing the last 27 contests.

Deni Avdija assumed a point forward role during Holiday's absence.

Portland acquired Holiday from the Boston Celtics during the offseason. The veteran floor general was off to a solid start prior to being sidelined, averaging 16.7 points, 8.3 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.6 steals across 12 appearances.

Holiday's return should bolster the Blazers' 18th-ranked defense. The 35-year-old is a three-time NBA All-Defensive first team selection.

Portland has surrendered 2.5 fewer points per 100 possessions with Holiday on the floor this season.