Eric Gordon injury update: Hornets' star expected to return Saturday

New Orleans Hornets guard Eric Gordon will likely make his season debut Saturday against the Charlotte Bobcats, coach Monty Williams said Wednesday, via the New Orleans Times-Picayune. Gordon has missed the entire season with a patella tendon injury and a bone bruise in his right knee.

Gordon started experiencing knee pain in training camp and ended up deciding to sit out indefinitely. There was a report that he could need microfracture surgery, but instead chose to rehab the injury in Los Angeles. He rejoined the team last week and predicted that he would ultimately return to the lineup before the new year.

Gordon was acquired by the Clippers prior to last season in the Chris Paul trade, but only played nine games due to knee trouble. He then signed a four-year, $58 million offer sheet with the Phoenix Suns that the Hornets chose to match.

It remains unclear whether Gordon will start in his debut. Eventually, he will replace either Greivis Vasquez or Austin Rivers in the starting lineup.