Lakers' Luol Deng: Sits out practice Monday, expects to play Tuesday

Deng didn't participate in practice Monday due to a sore back, but is expected to play in Tuesday's game against the Hornets, Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Analysis:

Deng took a minor hit to the back during Saturday's loss to the Cavaliers, and it sounds as though his absence Monday was mostly precautionary. Expect the veteran to be available in his usual starting role at small forward Tuesday. He's enjoyed a surge in playing time lately, and is averaging 12.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2.0 treys and 1.3 steals in 32.2 minutes per game over his last six contests. That might be enough to make him an attractive pickup in mid-sized or deeper leagues where he's available.