Orlando Magic leading scorer Aaron Gordon cleared to return following concussion

Leading scorer Aaron Gordon cleared the NBA's concussion protocol and will return to the lineup when the Orlando Magic host the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night.

Gordon suffered a concussion against the Denver Nuggets on Dec. 8 and missed the ensuing two games.

Gordon will wear a protective mouthpiece to protect his teeth, the team disclosed.

"It feels good (to be back), and I've been saying it all year and all my life -- I love this game so much, and I love being out there with my teammates," Gordon told the team website. "It's going to be a challenge tonight, but it's going to be fun."

The 22-year-old is averaging 18.5 points and is second on the team in rebounding (8.1).

While Gordon returns, Orlando remains without forwards Evan Fournier (ankle), Terrence Ross (knee) and Jonathan Isaac (ankle) as well as guard Arron Afflalo (back).