Hornets' Stephenson returning after missing 14 games

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) Hornets coach Steve Clifford says guard Lance Stephenson will return to action against the San Antonio Spurs after missing 14 games with a pelvic sprain.

Clifford said before Wednesday night's game he will work Stephenson back in slowly in a reserve role. He says Stephenson will only play about 15 minutes the first few nights back and ''we'll go from there.''

Clifford says ''he will be limited until he builds his endurance and gets his stamina back.''

Stephenson, the team's top free agent acquisition this offseason, is averaging 10.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists. But Stephenson is making just 38.6 percent of his shots from the field and shooting 29 percent from 3-point range.

Center Al Jefferson (groin) remains out for Charlotte.