Bogut's return to starting lineup provides lift for Bucks

Jan 13, 2009 - 5:29 AM MILWAUKEE (Ticker) -- Andrew Bogut's return to the starting lineup Monday made an immediate impact for the Milwaukee Bucks.

After missing four straight games and seeing limited time in a loss to Minnesota on Saturday because of back spasms, Bogut recorded his 16th double-double of the season with 18 points and 10 rebounds in a 97-91 win over the Washington Wizards.

"When you play, you're all the way back," Bogut said. "There are no excuses. I can sit here and say, 'My back's sore,' which it is. It's still hurting a little bit."

The Australian started off fast for Milwaukee, collecting eight points and five rebounds in the opening quarter.

Bogut's health would be key for Milwaukee's playoff positioning as it nears the midway point of the NBA season. The Bucks (19-21) stand in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, 1/2-games ahead of idle Philadelphia (17-20).

"I have some problems to sort through. If you're suiting up, you're playing," Bogut said. "I'm still working to get my back better and stronger, and hopefully, it will be better tomorrow morning."