Al Jefferson is hopeful to return to the Charlotte Bobcats for Monday's game against the Atlanta Hawks.

Jefferson has only played in the season opener, scoring 13 points and eight rebounds, but has missed six games since due to an ankle injury that he suffered in preseason.

“Now it’s all up to coach,” Jefferson said on whether he’ll play. “I think I proved I can go, but it’s not about one game and relapsing. I think I’m in a better position that I was.’’

Jefferson does not want to suffer another setback.

“I don’t want to play one game, then sit out another two weeks,” Jefferson said. “When I come back, I want to come back to stay."