Bobcats G Richardson nearing return

Nov 25, 2008 - 7:03 PM CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (Ticker) -- Charlotte Bobcats leading scorer Jason Richardson could be close to returning to the lineup.

Richardson practiced Tuesday for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery two weeks ago.

The Bobcats are hopeful that Richardson will be able to play in Toronto on Wednesday, but he told the Charlotte Observer that he wants to wait to see how the knee responds overnight Tuesday before giving the okay.

Averaging 17.6 points, Richardson has missed the last six games since experiencing pain and swelling in the knee on November 12. The arthroscopic surgery revealed no structural damage in the knee.

Richardson said Tuesday that there is no longer any swelling in the knee.

The Bobcats (4-9) have gone 2-4 without the eight-year veteran and snapped a four-game losing streak with a 93-84 victory over Philadelphia on Monday.