Coach Larry Brown reported that Stephon Marbury's sprained left shoulder had improved, but could not say whether he would play Saturday against New Orleans.

"The range of motion is much better," Brown said before the game. "He's just got some pain and they're worried that if he gets hit, it'll be a huge setback. Better to be on the safe side." If Marbury waits until next Wednesday to come back against Sacramento, he would have nine days off.