Bobcats' Mohammed planning to return from back injury soon

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Charlotte Bobcats center Nazr Mohammed says his troublesome back injury is tied to a nerve problem, but is targeting a return sometime on the team's current five-game homestand.

Mohammed went through a light workout Wednesday before missing his 17th straight game with what was initially called back spasms. Mohammed says a caught nerve was causing him intense pain until it released. It turned what he thought would be only a two- or three-game absence into a month on the sideline.

Mohammed says he's been feeling much better in the past week. He worked up a sweat while doing shooting drills Wednesday.

Recently acquired Theo Ratliff has started in his place.

Mohammed is averaging 8.2 points and 5.3 rebounds.