Nets’ Williams uncertain about return from injury

Deron-Williams;-Brooklyn-Nets

Deron Williams, left, has played for the Nets the past three seasons. (Kathy Kmonicek/AP)

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Nets point guard Deron Williams says he is still "pretty sore" and doesn’t know when he will return from his latest injury.

Williams was diagnosed with fractured left rib cartilage last week and the Nets said he would be reevaluated later this week. Williams said after practice Tuesday that there has been some improvement but his side still hurts when he breathes, sneezes and coughs.

The former All-Star has battled injuries since signing a $98.5 million, five-year contract in July 2012, but said he had never had any problems with his ribs before he was hurt Jan. 4 in Miami and then re-injured when he tried to return last Wednesday.

"The rest of my body felt great before this happened, so it’s frustrating something new comes up," Williams said. "Really can’t do anything about it."

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