Monta Ellis Shows Up, DeMarcus Nelson and Richard Hendrix Sent to D-League

DeMarcus Nelson, who was the starting point guard for the Golden State Warriors in the first five games of the 2008-2009 season, was recently assigned to the Bakersfield Jam of the D-League. Who would have predicted that?

Coach Don Nelson foreshadowed this move by providing the young guard limited action in the last four games. CJ Watson replaced him in the starting lineup and had a stellar performance.

Now he can get acquainted with running a team with the Jam, which ultimately makes it a good move from the coaching staff.

Richard Hendrix, the Warriors' second round pick out of Alabama, was also assigned to the Jam.

The Warriors, at the point guard spot, are now left with Watson and Marcus Williams. Don Nelson will be forced to insert Williams into games, as witnessed in the Detroit Pistons encounter last Thursday, Nov. 13.

However, the Warriors' head coach can obviously surprise fans with an altered plan. Williams will get minutes, but very few.

Nelson might even have a starting lineup of: Stephen Jackson at point guard, Kelenna Azubuike at shooting guard, Corey Maggette at small forward, Brandan Wright at power forward, and Andris Biedrins at center.

With the temporary departure of DeMarcus Nelson and Hendrix, good news awaits Rob Kurz, who is likely to be on the active roster for games.

Monta Ellis

Matt Steinmetz, Warriors' inside analyst and San Francisco Examiner writer, announced that Monta Ellis appeared at the Warriors' practice facility yesterday. The great news: He has no limp.

Stienmetz wrote, "Ellis’ agent, Jeff Fried, expects his client to get back out onto the court sometime around Thanksgiving week."

Janny Hu of the San Francisco Chronicle wrote that Ellis is expected to have surgery on Wednesday to remove the screws that remain in his ankle.

Ellis also made an appearance at Palo Alto for an autograph session and fan meeting on Nov. 7.

Don Nelson said, "Yeah, it was good to see old Monta...or make that young Monta."

You can check out a video of Ellis' return to the Warriors' practice facility by clicking HERE.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?