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Grizzlies Notebook: Conley nearing return
Rookie's hurt shoulder appears to be healed
By Ronald Tillery (Contact)
Thursday, December 27, 2007

Another week produced another positive update on rookie point guard Mike Conley's condition.

The Grizzlies' first-round draft pick (fourth overall) participated in the team's full-contact practice Tuesday. Conley's clearance means that his return from a posterior labral tear in his right shoulder is imminent.

Team doctors first want to see how the shoulder responds to physical punishment, and Conley will need a few practices to regain conditioning.

"It was good to see," Griz head coach Marc Iavaroni said, describing Conley's workout. "You didn't think he had a shoulder injury. He was moving around well. He was quick. I'm sure he'll get in better shape, but that will come with playing."

Conley has been out since Nov. 18. A week ago, he reported that he could dribble and shoot without complications in non-contact drills.

Conley's off-court workouts were designed to strengthen the shoulder. He's performed non-contact drills for at least two weeks. Even so, Iavaroni indicated that the team won't rush Conley back.

"It's one of those things you try not to put a date on," Iavaroni said. "I want the guy to feel good about his body and feel good about what he's doing in practice."

Conley suffered the injury Nov. 17 when he fell just before halftime during a game at Dallas. The 20-year-old was averaging 5.6 points and led all rookies with 4.2 assists in 14.4 minutes when the injury occurred.

Grizzlies Notebook: Conley nearing return : Grizzlies : Commercial Appeal