The struggling New Zealand Breakers have turned to a former player to help bolster their injury-ravaged roster for this weekend's NBL double-header against Perth.

The bottom team meet Perth in Auckland on Friday and again on Sunday.

Experienced guard Ben Thompson, a one-season Breaker in 2004/2005, joined the team on Wednesday to replace Clifton Bush, who is out for the rest of the season with a back injury.

The Breakers are awaiting final clearance on another new recruit, an unnamed American import, due to arrive in Auckland on Thursday.

The Breakers are hoping to play him in the weekend, replacing Rich Melzer who is recovering from an infected knee and is expected to be off court for some time.

With Adrian Majstrovich back training and set to play against his former team on Friday at the Trusts Stadium, there is now no room in the roster for import Casey Frank.

However, the Breakers are keen to treat Frank as part of the club, to work with him to become a naturalised New Zealander and have him take part in team training sessions.

Thompson's return follows a visit to Auckland last week to catch up with friends. The Australian took part in a training session last Friday and convinced coach Andrej Lemanis that he could slip back into the team.

The 27-year-old played basketball during the winter and his work as a personal trainer means his fitness levels are high, the Breakers said.

Thompson has plenty of NBL experience, having played in the league since 1997.

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