Sore knee could sideline Stoudemire longer

Swelling in Amare Stoudemire’s right knee could sideline the center for the second game in a row when the Phoenix Suns begin a four-game trip tonight at Charlotte.

“It all depends on how I feel,� Stoudemire said after practice Monday. “If I feel good tomorrow, then I’ll play. If not, then I’ll sit it out. There’s no pressure being put on me by the staff or the trainers.�

Stoudemire had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Oct. 2.

He missed virtually all the 2005-06 season after microfracture surgery on his left knee. The latest surgery was considered minor, and Stoudemire had come back strong before the swelling occurred.

Coach Mike D’Antoni said he was not concerned about any long-term effect.

“Maybe it’s just a normal thing, just a little too much activity, maybe,� D’Antoni said. “Whatever it is, with a couple of days’ rest, he’ll be fine.�

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Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade’s surgically repaired knee and shoulder survived their first real test with no setbacks.

The good news for the Heat was that Wade reported no problems related to his left knee or left shoulder -- both of which were operated on May 15 -- after practice.

The bad news for the franchise is that Wade still doesn’t know when he’ll be ready to return to the lineup, which could clearly use a boost after an 0-3 start.

“He went after it, he took a couple hard hits, he had a good practice,� Heat Coach Pat Riley said. “He’s just going to practice every day and when he feels ready, then that’s when he’ll be ready. He went hard today. . . . He looked good.�