NEW ORLEANS - DeMarre Carroll might be close to a return from a left Achilles strain. However, he will miss a third straight game with the injury.

Kent Bazemore will start tonight's game against the Pelicans in place of Carroll at small forward.

Carroll warmed up before the game. However, he wasn't wearing uniform shorts, an indication that he would be held out.

Coach Mike Budenholzer said he was "hopeful" Carroll could play and added that he is "close."

Carroll was moved to the active list but that is not a surprise considering Thabo Sefolosha and Shelvin Mack were already ruled out.