Ellis (knee) returns Warriors after missing three games
February 20th, 2010 Posted in NBA basketball newsMonta Ellis returned to the Golden State Warriors lineup Friday night against the Utah Jazz after sitting out three games with a mild left knee sprain.
The NBAs fifth-leading scorer at 26.2 points a game, Ellis had not played since injuring himself late in the fourth quarter against Dallas on Feb. 8. He was examined Tuesday in Alabama by Dr. James Andrews, who confirmed the original diagnosis of a mild left knee sprain. Ellis originally hurt the knee Feb. 8 against Dallas.
Golden State coach Don Nelson didnt expect to limit Ellis playing time against Utah, but said hell rest the veteran point guard, who is second in the NBA in minutes played.
I dont think his injury is going to limit him, Nelson said. Well communicate during the game. I dont think anyone has to play 48 minutes anymore, especially with 10 guys on the roster.
The Warriors went 2-1 in the three games Ellis sat out and averaged 118.6 points, nearly 11 points higher than their season average.
Also, guard Raja Bell made a rare appearance in the Warriors locker room and said hes still hopeful of playing this season. Bell, who underwent left wrist surgery on Dec. 3, is expected to stay in the Bay Area during the remainder of his rehab.
