Miami ? Shaquille O’Neal, recovering from knee surgery, could return to the lineup Jan. 15 against the Los Angeles Lakers when the Miami Heat complete a six-game road trip.

The 34-year-old center will accompany the Heat on their Western swing beginning Friday, coach Pat Riley said. O’Neal hasn’t practiced since tearing cartilage in his left knee Nov. 12. He had surgery a week later and was then projected to be sidelined until at least late December.

O’Neal is expected to resume running and practicing soon. He estimated he’ll need a “couple of practices” to feel comfortable enough to play.

“There ain’t no way to get in great basketball shape than play basketball,” he said Monday.

Riley said O’Neal has stayed in good shape, with his weight under 330 pounds and his body fat below 13 percent.