Denver Nuggets optimistic of Wilson Chandler return

The Denver Nuggets have said they are optimistic that Wilson Chandler will be able to play later today.

The small forward is yet to feature for the team this season, having injured his hamstring on the second day of training camp.

The 26-year-old told reporters: "I felt pretty good. I took hits better than I thought I would. The only thing that bothered me was conditioning. I've seen a couple games where we lost by a few points, thinking maybe I could've helped.

Head coach Brian Shaw added: "He brings a lot to the table. I kind of got a little gleam in my eye in anticipation of him coming back. Just overall, it gives a big shot in our arm having him out there.

"I'll play it by ear as we go. I wouldn't immediately throw [Chandler] into the starting lineup. Just get him in, get him a good five-minute run, see how that goes and build from there."

The Nuggets face the Los Angeles Lakers tonight.