Gordon to return for Hornets against 76ers

Guard Eric Gordon will play for the first time after missing four games when the New Orleans Hornets face the Philadelphia 76ers Wednesday night. Gordon, acquired in the trade with the Los Angeles Clippers for Chris Paul, scored 20 points and hit the game-winning shot with 4.2 seconds left in a season-opening win over Phoenix. He has not played since then due to a bruised knee he sustained in that game. ''I'm excited,'' Hornets coach Monty Williams said. ''He gives us scoring and some confidence going into the game.'' Williams also said forward Trevor Ariza would sit out against the 76ers with a groin injury that occurred on Monday against Utah. Ariza started the first five games, averaging 9.8 points. Al-Farouq Aminu will replace Ariza in the lineup.