Sports
Return of Arenas brightens the mood in D.C.
By: Kevin Dunleavy
Examiner Staff Writer
February 17, 2009
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| Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas returned to practice Monday for the first time this season. (Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) |
The Wizards stepped lively through a high-spirited practice Monday, refreshed by the All-Star break and rejuvenated by the return of Gilbert Arenas.
Out since undergoing surgery on his left knee in September, Arenas practiced for the first time this season.
“Today seeing him on court, practicing and handling the contact, hitting shots and pushing the ball up and getting out in transition, was wonderful,” said forward Caron Butler. “It brought back a lot of memories. I look forward to playing with him and getting him back as soon as possible.”
The possibility of the return of Arenas, who had three surgeries on his left knee in a span of 18 months, is an emotional boost to a Washington (11-42) squad buried in last place in the Eastern Conference, nine games behind 14th place Toronto and on pace for the worst final record in franchise history.
Up next »“It was great just to have him out there. I think the energy and the whole atmosphere was just a little bit better,” said Butler. “Everybody was feeling a little bit better seeing him out there, seeing him full strength.”
T'wolves at Wizards
When » Tuesday, 7
Where » Verizon Center
TV/Radio » CSN/980 AM
“Full strength,” off course, is a relative term, especially with Arenas’ balky knee. Last year’s failed return was full of stops and starts. With $111 million committed to the 6-4 guard, the Wizards will be extra cautious, especially with so little at stake this season.
The Wizards also will be cautious with forward Andray Blatche who returned to practice yesterday for the first time after bumping knees with Phoenix center Shaquille O’Neal on Jan. 26.
Wizards interim coach Ed Tapscott said Blatche will be evaluated and will probably have to go through another practice before he is cleared to play.
