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After much speculation on when he would make his anticipated return to the court, center Andrew Bogut is in the lineup and will start in the Golden State Warriors' season opener against the Phoenix Suns, according to Rusty Simmons of the San Francisco Chronicle.
Bogut fractured his left ankle a season ago before being traded to the Warriors by the Milwaukee Bucks in a deal that sent Monta Ellis to the Eastern Conference. Bogut has yet to suit up for the Warriors, and was day-to-day as he worked his way back into shape following the injury.
It's sooner than many expected, as his clearance to practice in full came just days ago. He was noncommittal when asked about his anticipated return date, but clearly he and the medical staff are confident he will be able to contribute against Phoenix.
It's a welcome sign for Warriors fans who have yet to see him on the court with his new teammates. The Warriors' ability to improve on the 23-43 mark they had last year will depend in part on Bogut's long term health.