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Deron Williams returns from 11-game absence Monday

Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

A couple of years ago, a battle between Deron Williams and Chris Paul would have been must-see viewing.

Sadly, that's no longer even remotely the case. Those interested to see just how wide the gap between the two point guards has grown can watch the Brooklyn Nets take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday - and yes, Williams will be in the lineup.

Williams is set to return from an 11-game absence due to fractured rib cartilage. The Nets went 2-9 during that stretch to fall to 18-28, now outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture and looking in. While Williams wasn't playing up to his previous standards, his return is paramount if the Nets hope to climb back into playoff positioning.

In 32 games, Williams is averaging 13.9 points, three rebounds and 6.3 assists. Jarrett Jack has taken over the starter's role and is averaging a comparable 12.1 points, 3.3 rebounds and 4.9 assists. 

Williams losing his starting job would have sounded absurd a few seasons ago, when he and Paul were still on a similar level. Their careers certainly look different now:

PG Battle Paul Williams
2005 Draft # 4 3
All-Star Appearances 8 3
Playoff Appearances 6 6
Games 665 680
PPG 18.6 17.3
RPG 4.4 3.2
APG 9.9 8.6
SPG 2.4 1.1
PER 25.5 19.0
WinShares 123.9 69.8

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