NEW ORLEANS -- New Orleans Hornets rookie and top overall draft pick Anthony Davis returned to the lineup Tuesday night against the Washington Wizards.
Davis had missed 11 games because of what trainers called a stress reaction in his left ankle, a condition which could have led to a fracture if not rested and treated.
Davis played 25 minutes coming off the bench and finished with 13 points, eight rebounds, three blocks and three steals in the Hornets' 77-70 home loss.
The rookie out of Kentucky was off to a strong start to his NBA career before being sidelined, averaging 16 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game in six games. He also missed time earlier this season with a concussion.
During his most recent 11-game absence, New Orleans went 2-9.
The Hornets still await the return of guard Eric Gordon, who has not yet played this season because of a right knee injury.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.