Davis, Rivers to return Friday night for Hornets

Associated Press photo by GERALD HERBERTNew Orleans Hornets power forward Anthony Davis dunks in front of San Antonio Spurs power forward Tim Duncan in the second half of an NBA game Oct. 31 in New Orleans.

By The Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS — Hornets coach Monty Williams said top overall draft choice Anthony Davis is ready to return from his concussion Friday night when New Orleans hosts the Charlotte Bobcats.

Williams said rookie guard Austin Rivers, the 10th overall pick, also is ready to come back from a sprained finger on his left hand that sideline him for one game.

The 6-foot-10 Davis has been out since midway through the second game of the season on Nov. 2, when he took a hit to the head in a collision under the basket with Rivers.

Davis was off to a strong start to his NBA career, averaging 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in his first two games.

Rivers has averaged 6 points, 3.3 assist and 2 rebounds through three games.