Rockets' Chris Paul expected to return Thursday v. Suns

By AP
Published

HOUSTON (AP) Chris Paul is expected to return for the Houston Rockets on Thursday night after missing all but one game this season with a bruised left knee.

The point guard, who is in his first year with the Rockets after a trade from the Clippers, returned to practice on Wednesday. Coach Mike D'Antoni says the plan is for him to start on Thursday when Houston visits the Phoenix Suns.

D'Antoni says: ''He's ready to go.''

The Rockets have played well despite his absence, with James Harden leading the Rockets to an 11-4 record, second in the Western Conference behind the Warriors.

The 32-year-old Paul will play restricted minutes as he eases his way back, but D'Antoni wouldn't say exactly how many minutes that would be.

Paul says he still has a way to go, but he's excited to be nearing his return.

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