NEW ORLEANS -- San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich says swingman Danny Green is returning from his broken left hand Monday night against the Pelicans, while New Orleans has learned that sidelined center Jason Smith won't be back this season.
Green, returning from a 10-game absence, has played in 37 games this season, averaging 7.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists.
Green is starting, but Popovich says he doesn't expect much immediate production from Green after a three-week absence and that he is "just trying to get his feet wet."
The Pelicans say Smith had surgery last Wednesday to remove loose cartilage in his right knee. The 7-foot Smith had not played since Jan. 15. In 31 games this season, Smith has averaged 9.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and 0.9 blocks.
