LATEST HEADLINES - NBA NEWS

Boone back at Nets' practice, may start season-opener


Posted Oct 27 2008 7:52PM

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Nets center Josh Boone returned to practice on Monday after missing more than a week because of a rapid heartbeat.

Boone met with coach Lawrence Frank after the workout and said he will be ready for Wednesday's regular-season opener at Washington.

"I don't know if I'm starting or not, so I guess we'll see on Wednesday. I really don't know," said Boone, who said his stamina was good despite the layoff.

Frank would not say whether Boone or rookie Brook Lopez would start, but the coach indicated Boone's experience was a positive. Boone started 53 games last season, averaging 8.2 points and 7.3 rebounds.

"I think what plays a part in it is, looking at Josh, because he's been here, he is probably a little bit more comfortable communicating in terms of calling the defensive commands," Frank said.

Frank added that he might start one way and change later in the game.

"I think with Josh, he has the best opportunity early because his ability and knowledge," Frank said.

Lopez worked with the first team on Monday when practice was open to the media and said Boone looked good in practice.

"Like I said, it's not up to me any more," Lopez said. "Whether or not I start, regardless, I'll come in with the same energy and play hard and play defense."

Forward Eduardo Najera had his injured wrist examined by a doctor. He has not practiced in weeks and is doubtful for the opener.

SEARCH NEWS
HEADLINES

VIDEOS
photoSixers vs. Nets
The Sixers extend the Nets' franchise-worst start to 0-8.
photoGameTime: The Chicago Call
NBA Senior Vice President of Referee Operations, Ronald Johnson, joined NBA TV to discuss the process of instant replay.
photoPlays of the Week
Check out the steals, the dishes, the blocks and the slams in the Top 10 Plays of the Week.
photoGrizzlies vs. Rockets
Carl Landry and Luis Scola helped the Rockets deliver a knockout blow to the Grizzlies.
photoHawks vs. Knicks
Josh Smith scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as the Hawks beat the Knicks 114-101.
photoBulls vs. Raptors
Chris Bosh had 28 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Raptors past the Bulls 99-89.
photoThe Daily Zap
The Daily Zap gives you Wednesday's highlights in less than five minutes.
photoWednesday's Top 10
Check out the top 10 plays from an action-packed night in the NBA.
photoHornets vs. Suns
Steve Nash scored 12 points and dished out 10 assists as the Suns beat the Hornets 124-104.
photoArena Link: Roy Hibbert
Roy Hibbert had 16 points, nine rebounds and spoke with NBA TV after the Pacers defeated the Warriors.

Other Features
NBA
Events
NBA 101
All-Access
24/7