Blatche to start after being benched during last game

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Washington Wizards coach Flip Saunders says Andray Blatche will start against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night after opting not to re-enter Tuesday's game against Charlotte.

Blatche did not return after the first 7 1/2 minutes of the 95-86 overtime loss to the Charlotte Bobcats. Saunders said Blatche didn't want to listen when he tried to talk to the forward about playing better defense. Saunders said Blatche could have played if he had come to speak with him during the game, but he waited until after the game.

Saunders had said he doubted Blatche would play Wednesday, but since has said he's ready to move forward.

Blatche had averaged 23.2 points and 9.4 rebounds since the All-Star break. The Wizards have lost 12 straight games.