Bobcats' Kidd-Gilchrist ready after 6-week absence

Charlotte Bobcats small forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who has missed six weeks with a broken left hand, will return to action Tuesday night against the New York Knicks.

Coach Steve Clifford told the Observer that Kidd-Gilchrist, who is wearing a padded half-glove to protect his fingers, will start and play for 6-to-7 minute stints after having participated in three practices without any lingering problems.

The second-year player, who suffered the injury against Dallas on Dec. 3, has averaged 9.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 18 games this season.