Horry Reports No Problem With Knee

The important day-after report on Robert Horry was almost as encouraging as his first performance back. Almost.

The only thing that could have detracted from his return after 21 games out because of a sprained knee ligament was if Horry awoke with any unexpected pain, swelling, or stiffness in the left leg, especially since he had also worked out with Magic Johnson’s touring team several hours before playing 20 minutes Wednesday against the Denver Nuggets. But Thursday, Horry reported no problems, officially making his first game in 6 1/2 weeks a success.

He had seven points on six-of-nine shooting, eight rebounds, four steals and two blocks while playing with the doctor-imposed time restriction.

Meanwhile, Elden Campbell and Travis Knight showed signs of improvement from their bruised buttock and sprained knee, respectively, but neither is expected to play against San Antonio tonight.

*

Corie Blount continues to post impressive numbers, with 15 points and 13 rebounds against the Nuggets and averages of 10.1 points and 10.1 rebounds the last 12 games. But it’s the small numbers that have made the biggest difference the last two outings:

All-star Shawn Kemp had four points and two rebounds in the fourth quarter of a close game Tuesday at Seattle. Then, Denver’s Antonio McDyess, after getting 18 before intermission Wednesday, was held to three points in 17 minutes the rest of the way, helping the Lakers turn the game into a rout.