MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley is expected to play Friday against the Sacramento Kings, less than three weeks after he broke bones in his lower back.
The Grizzlies issued an injury update Friday saying that Conley would play. He’s returning far ahead of schedule.
The team said Nov. 29 that Conley would miss at least six weeks after being diagnosed with broken bones on the vertebrae of his lower back.
Conley, who signed a five-year, $153 million contract in July, was hurt Nov. 28 during a loss to Charlotte taking a charge from Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. He went down hard on his back before leaving the game.
The 29-year-old Conley has played 17 games this season and is averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game.
The Grizzlies also say guard James Ennis III and forward Chandler Parsons are doubtful for Friday’s game.
Ennis has an injured right calf that has kept him out since he strained it Nov. 21.
Parsons, the Grizzlies’ top free agent signee this offseason, has played only six games for Memphis. He has a bone bruise in his left knee.
