East Rutherford, NJ -- (Sports Network) - New Jersey Nets forward Yi Jianlian had the stitches removed from his upper lip, the team reported on Tuesday.

Already sidelined with a knee injury, Yi suffered a lacerated lip during a workout on December 5 and needed 50 stitches to close the wound.

He will participate in non-contact drills this week and will be eligible to participate in practice on Monday, December 21. Yi is expected to return to action on Wednesday, December 23, versus the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He has appeared in just four games this year as he sprained his right MCL in a November 2 game against Charlotte. He is averaging 9.8 points and 7.5 rebounds in four games this season.