Suns' Dragan Bender: Nearing possible return

Bender (ankle) has increased his activity of late and hopes to return before the end of the regular season, The Arizona Republic's Doug Haller reports. "I'm not doing contact or anything like that," Bender said. "I'm shooting on the court before the games and I'm trying to run as much as I can on the treadmill, just putting weight on the ankle to see how it responds."

Analysis:

It's been nearly seven weeks since the rookie underwent minor surgery on his right ankle to remove a bone spur, and while his recovery has taken longer than expected, Bender is showing signs of tangible progress. Coach Earl Watson said the recent workouts have left Bender "tired," but he's encouraged by how well the 19-year-old is moving following the procedure. Watson also said he expects Bender to return for "at least a few games" before the end of what's been a difficult regular season for the young Suns.