Injured Duncan Still Uncertain for Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs headed for Phoenix on Thursday still expressing uncertainty about how soon star forward Tim Duncan will return to the lineup.

“Today, Tim is not ready to go on the floor,” Spur Coach Gregg Popovich said before leaving for Phoenix. “Saturday is a different deal. Tuesday is a different deal.”

With the best-of-five series tied 1-1, the Spurs will have to win at least once at America West Arena to avoid elimination. Game 3 is Saturday and Game 4 is Tuesday.

Duncan has torn cartilage in his left knee.

In Phoenix, Rodney Rogers (back spasms) and Randy Livingston (sprained ankle) sat out practice, but both expect to play.

The Suns’ Jason Kidd, recovering from a broken ankle, is running lightly but insists he won’t be back until a potential second round of the playoffs.

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With guards Allen Iverson (inflamed right elbow) and Eric Snow (chip fracture of the ankle) ailing, the Philadelphia 76ers may be forced to rely on role players in tonight’s Game 3 of their playoff series against visiting Charlotte.

Both say they plan to play, though, Snow’s status will be a game-time decision.

Aaron McKie would replace Snow at point guard in the best-of-five series, which is tied, 1-1.

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New Jersey Net forward Scott Burrell had surgery on his left knee and left hand in New York. Burrell, a free agent, is expected to be ready for next season.