Lammers, Stephens returning to practice

Georgia Tech forward Quinton Stephens is seventh in the ACC in rebounding at 7.8 per game. (Associated Press)

Georgia Tech forward Quinton Stephens is seventh in the ACC in rebounding at 7.8 per game. (Associated Press)

After sitting out practice in advance of the Miami game, Georgia Tech center Ben Lammers and forward Quinton Stephens were expected to take part in practice before Sunday’s critical matchup against Syracuse.

Coach Josh Pastner said Friday that Stephens “needs to practice (Friday)” and that he would hold Lammers out Friday and then return him to practice Saturday. Having not participated in the team’s two practices in advance of the Miami game and then being slightly limited in their movement, neither Lammers nor Stephens played well against the Hurricanes. Lammers had a season-low three rebounds. Stephens was 2-for-9 from the field for six points.

“We’re not in a situation where we can’t practice, but health comes first,” Pastner said.

Having both players in better physical condition and in the flow of preparations would be undoubtedly helpful for the Jackets. Lammers is Tech’s best defender, leading rebounder and second leading scorer. Stephens is the Jackets’ second leading rebounder and fourth leading scorer.