Eric Gordon: Will play Saturday

Gordon (finger) will return to the starting lineup Saturday against the Timberwolves, John Reid of the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Analysis:

Gordon was initially given a 4-to-6 week timetable after fracturing his right ring finger back on Jan. 19. He'll return on the shorter end of that timeline, having missed the Pelicans' last 16 games, and coach Alvin Gentry will immediately insert the veteran into the starting lineup at shooting guard. As a result, Alonzo Gee, who played 23 minutes in Thursday's win over Oklahoma City, will likely shift to the bench. It's unclear whether Gordon will face a minutes restriction Saturday, but more information should be available following morning shootaround.