Phoenix Suns forward Grant Hill will in fact return to the lineup when the Suns take on the Houston Rockets in a pivotal game for their playoff chances, according to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic. Hill underwent minor knee surgery in late March when an MRI revealed that he suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee.

Hill will not start, however. Instead, Shannon Brown, who has played very well in Hill's absence, will remain a starter.

There was a chance that Hill would not return this season, but with the Suns on the outside of the playoff picture, every game is pivotal. Phoenix is 30-28 on the season, two games behind Houston and Denver, who are tied for the eighth and final playoff spot. The Suns also have a very difficult schedule to close the season, so Hill is needed if they want to make a late run.

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