Grizzlies C Gasol could return in two weeks

Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol, who has been out for about a month with a sprained MCL in his left knee, could be back in two weeks, according to the ESPN radio affiliate in Memphis.

Gasol believes he can return in 10 days but doctors reportedly estimate 20.

The Grizzlies have struggled without Gasol. They are three games out of the eighth spot in the Western Conference after advancing to the conference finals last season. They also lost small forward Quincy Pondexter to a stress fracture in his right foot, likely for the rest of the season.

Gasol's injury did not require surgery. The reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 17.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.1 blocks per game.