There is good and bad news for the Sparks regarding Kelsey Plum’s health.

The bad news is that she’s been ruled out of LA’s first game back from the WNBA All-Star break due to her lower left leg injury. But the good news is she is still nearing her return.

Plum didn’t participate in Monday’s practice with the Sparks, but she did do some on-court work afterward.

Sparks head coach Lynne Roberts talked about how Plum’s return is on the horizon after practice.

“She’s working her tail off,” Roberts said. “She’s going to do a workout here, and she’s getting close.”

While Plum missing more time is a bummer, the fact she’s on the court and getting some work in is a step in the right direction.

Plum being ruled out for Tuesday’s matchup against the Liberty means she will get some additional time off. LA does not play again until Sunday when they take on the Fire on the road.

Now, Plum will have the rest of the week to focus on her health and try to get ready for a possible return.

Plum’s importance to this team cannot be overstated. When Plum plays, the Sparks are 7-5, and when she is out, they are 3-11.

During these last 10 games Plum has missed, the Sparks have gone 2-8. LA is currently on a five-game losing streak, their longest of the season.

Plum is the Sparks’ best player. She is averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game, leading LA in both categories. Plum was named a WNBA All-Star reserve, but was unable to participate in the contest due to her injury.

While this has been the most time Plum has missed this year, it’s not her first injury of the season. Plum dealt with an ankle sprain in late May that forced her to miss three games.

It’s now or never for the Sparks.

They must begin stacking wins if they want to earn a playoff berth. The Sparks are currently four games behind the eight-seed Mystics. Plum playing will give them the best chance of making it to the postseason for the first time since 2020.

So, hopefully, this is the last time she’s ruled out for a game this season. And when the Sparks begin their three-game road trip this weekend, Plum can leave the street clothes at home and suit up.