Lance Stephenson (groin) could practice Monday at the earliest, the Charlotte Observer reports.

Stephenson (groin) could practice Monday at the earliest, the Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis:

Stephenson has missed the Hornets' last four preseason games, as he's been nursing a sore groin. He's hopeful he'll be back to practice Monday, but that's at the earliest. The Hornets' first regular season game is Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks, so if he's able to get back to practice Monday he should have a chance to play in his first game as a Hornet.