Ellis returns to NBA from injury in Warriors' lineup

Monta Ellis returned to the Golden State Warriors' lineup against Utah after missing three NBA games with a sprained left knee.

The NBA's fifth-leading scorer at 26.2 points per game, Ellis hadn't played since he was hurt late in the fourth quarter against Dallas on February 8.

Golden State coach Don Nelson said he didn't expect to limit Ellis' playing time against the Jazz, but he said he would rest the veteran point guard, who is second in the NBA in minutes played.

"I don't think his injury is going to limit him," Nelson said. "We'll communicate during the game. I don't think anyone has to play 48 (minutes) anymore, especially with 10 guys (on the roster)."