Monta Ellis won't be missing his first game of the 2015-16 season for the Indiana Pacers when they face the Utah Jazz on Saturday night in Salt Lake City.
Originally listed as questionable with a sore back, the 30-year-old has been fully cleared to play, and will remain a part of the starting backcourt, according to the Salt Lake Tribune's Aaron Falk. Ellis sustained the injury Thursday night against the Portland Trail Blazers.
After starting the year slowly, Ellis has improved his shooting over the past couple weeks, shooting 50 percent or better in four of his last six games. For the season, the 6-foot-3 guard is averaging 12.0 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds.
The 12-6 Pacers will try and take hold of first place in the Eastern Conference tonight, currently sitting just a half-game back.