OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) Injured Golden State forward Troy Murphy believes he's ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation from a deep bone bruise and stress reaction in his right ankle.

The 6-foot-11 Murphy is out four to six weeks and has missed the last 12 games for the inconsistent Warriors. He expects to play again after the All-Star break.

Murphy had another MRI late last week that was compared to an earlier test. This one ``showed improvement,'' he said.

The foot is the same one he injured in training camp, forcing him to miss the entire preseason and the first 22 games of the regular season. Trainers don't believe the injuries are related.

``The swelling and inflammation are down,'' said Murphy, a third-year pro who averaged 11.7 points and 10.2 rebounds last season. ``On Monday, I began riding the bike and doing ankle strengthening exercises. I'll start running next Wednesday after the road trip. It would be a little early, so I hope all goes well.''

Murphy is averaging 7.5 points and 6.1 rebounds in 11 games.

The Warriors' first game after the All-Star break is Feb. 18 at home against the Los Angeles Lakers.

With all the injuries the team has dealt with this season, coach Eric Musselman is cautious about making any predictions with his hurt players.

``It's not going to be until after the All-Star break,'' he said before Friday's game against Chicago. ``Until a guy runs, it's hard to tell if they'll have a setback.''

Murphy has been limited to shooting free throws.

Golden State has been struggling to have enough players to practice. Point guard Nick Van Exel is on the injured list with left knee inflammation and forward Cliff Robinson is battling back spasms.

``It stinks,'' Murphy said. ``Four to six weeks, you can't speed it up. I have to be patient.''