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Brand, 76ers visit shorthanded Hornets

Jan 26, 2009 - 3:27 PM Philadelphia (21-21) at New Orleans (26-14) 8:00 p.m. EST

NEW ORLEANS (Ticker) -- Elton Brand's comeback from injury figures to catch a big break when the Philadelphia 76ers face a banged up New Orleans Hornets squad on Monday.

Brand, who saw his first action since December 17 in Saturday's win over New York, had been out of action for more than a month after suffering a dislocated right shoulder. He will likely avoid a pair of big-time interior players for the Hornets as he attempts to get back to full strength.

In his return Saturday, Brand scored six points on 3-of-4 shooting in a little over 13 minutes during a 116-110 victory over the Knicks. He had been averaging 15.9 points and 9.8 rebounds at the time of his injury and should provide Philadelphia with a dominant post presence.

After struggling to start the season, the 76ers gained momentum even while they were bitten by the injury bug. They have won eight of nine and will look to move above .500 for the first time since November 23.

New Orleans is enduring its own injury difficulties as big-men Tyson Chandler (left ankle) and David West (back) are dealing with health issues. The void was evident in its last contest.

The Hornets have given up the fewest points in the paint of any team in the league, but were torched for 24 points and 14 rebounds by Al Jefferson in a 116-108 loss to Minnesota on Friday. The Timberwolves held a 52-36 scoring edge inside.

Chris Paul did his best to carry New Orleans, recording his 27th double-double with 23 points and 12 assists while James Posey had 24 off the bench in a losing effort.