Lakers, Chinese star Yi Jianlian in discussions for his NBA return

The Lakers are in discussions to bring Chinese star Yi Jianlian back to the NBA, The Times has confirmed.

No deal had been reached yet, according to an NBA official who was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

Yi, who was drafted sixth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2007, last played in the NBA during the 2011-12 season, with the Dallas Mavericks.

The 28-year-old has been playing in China with Guangdong since he left the NBA.

Over the five years he played in the NBA, the seven-foot forward had a career average of 7.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. He shot 33.3% from three-point range.

broderick.turner@latimes.com

Twitter:@BA_Turner