West progressing

Still hoping to return before the All-Star break in late February, Delonte West picked up a basketball Monday for the first time since breaking his right (non-shooting) wrist Nov. 24 against the Nets.

Wearing a brace, he shot free throws after practice, gently using his right hand as a guide, but never using it to receive the soft bounce passes back to him. He hopes to progress to catching the ball and dribbling next week.

“Every day feels better,’’ he said. “I’m able to get some work in, so it’s a positive. The wrist is still weak and sore, but it’s getting there.’’