Lakers to wear commemorative patch to honor Jerry Buss

The Lakers return to the court on Wednesday night against the Boston Celtics, their first game since the death of owner Jerry Buss.

To honor Buss, the team will wear a commemorative patch for the remainder of the season. The patch will be placed on the right side of the team jerseys, above the “L” in “Lakers.”

Buss died on Monday after battling cancer. The official cause of death was kidney failure.

The 2-inch circular patch includes Buss’ initials in gold lettering with a purple background.

After a slow start to the season (25-29), the Lakers hope to make a final push into the playoffs. The team has been off for the All-Star break since a 125-101 loss to the Clippers last Thursday.

Buss will also be honored with a memorial service at 3 p.m. Thursday at the Nokia Theatre at L.A. Live.

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Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.