Dwight Howard flying home for nonsurgical PRP procedure

The Lakers announced on Friday that Dwight Howard will travel back to Los Angeles on Friday to undergo a “PRP procedure� on Saturday.

PRP is short for “platelet rich plasma.� Howard will first have some of his own blood removed and spun in a centrifuge.

The resulting plasma, which contains a high dose of Howard’s own platelets to promote healing, will be injected into his shoulder.

Howard will miss the Lakers’ visit to the Minnesota Timberwolves but will fly out to rejoin the team in Detroit.

There’s a short recovery time after the nonsurgical PRP procedure. It’s unclear if Howard will be ready to play against the Pistons on Sunday.

Pau Gasol will start in Howard’s place against the Timberwolves, backed up at center by Metta World Peace and rookie Robert Sacre.

The Lakers have lost eight straight road games and will play their next six away from Staples Center.

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Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.