Posted Jan 7 2009 7:24PM
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Washington Wizards shooting guard DeShawn Stevenson had a painkilling injection Wednesday to relieve pain in his back and is expected to miss at least another 11/2 weeks.
Stevenson hasn't played since Dec. 30, missing four straight games.
"That's been bothering him a while and he just wanted to play because he said he didn't want to leave while his teammates were struggling," Wizards interim coach Ed Tapscott said. "I miss his versatility. I miss his presence on the floor."
Stevenson's back will be re-evaluated in 10 days to two weeks, Tapscott said.
The guard is averaging 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists this season.
He joins injured starters Gilbert Arenas (left knee) and Brendan Haywood (right wrist) on the sideline. Arenas and Haywood have not played this season.
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