NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans Pelicans high-scoring wing Brandon Ingram, who has missed 12 games with a left knee contusion, is returning for Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Ingram has averaged 20.9 points in 63 games this season. Coach Willie Green said Ingram could be on a moderate minutes restriction in his first game action since March 21.
Green was gratified to see Ingram return for at least one game before the Pelicans enter the postseason.
“For timing and rhythm for the team, it was important to get him back as soon as possible,” Green said before tipoff.
Ingram’s return comes as the Pelicans try to lock up the sixth seed in the Western Conference, which would allow them to advance directly to the playoffs without having to enter the play-in tournament for the seventh through 10th seeds.
The Pelicans were in position to clinch the sixth spot with a victory or a Phoenix Suns loss. The Lakers came in looking for a victory to ensure themselves the eighth seed, which provides an easier path to the playoffs than a ninth or 10th seeding.
'Constantly learning' Imanaga off to impressive start with the Chicago Cubs
Beijing parks present 109 cultural events for Spring Festival holiday
Faye Dunaway's wildest moments! Fiery Oscar
Ant sets the record straight: TV star breaks his silence on THAT tattoo
David Ortiz is humbled by being honored in New York again; this time for post
Wu gets double as Shanghai outclass Changchun
JoJo Siwa goes wild: Karma singer accused of getting drunk at Disney World after turning 21
IF starring Ryan Reynolds lands at the top of a lackluster box office with less
Colorful Guizhou wind blows to Paris