Jazz C Okur out three weeks

Utah Jazz reserve center Mehmet Okur will miss at least three weeks because of a chronic disc problem in his lower back.

Okur was examined by back specialist Dr. Graham Hill in Salt Lake City on Monday. The examination confirmed the injury. The specialist placed Okur in a three-week program to rehab and allow him to stay in shape. Okur will not travel with the team during his rehab.

Okur missed the first 26 games of the season while recovering from a ruptured Achilles' tendon. He has appeared in just 13 games this season.

Reserve center Francisco Elson will not play Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls because of inflammation in his left knee.

The Bulls will be without center Joakim Noah because of an injury to his right hand and thumb.