Sampson staying back, injury updates

Jamal Sampson’s hopes of making the team may have taken a hit with a left ankle sprain. The free-agent center won’t be making the two-game road trip that starts tomorrow night in Las Cruces, N.M. against Sacramento. Sampson was hoping to stick while Erick Dampier and DJ Mbenga come back from injuries.

Speaking of Dampier and Mbenga, both will be traveling after staying home on the first trip. Dampier won’t be playing, but Avery Johnson joked: “I want him to keep me company.” Dampier said his shoulder rehab is on schedule and he’ll be reevaluated at the end of the month.

Mbenga had his first full practice today since right ACL surgery sidelined him last season. Johnson left open the possibility of the reserve center playing Thursday at Houston. Mbenga, however, said that’s unlikely.

Devean George is also staying behind to continue treatment on the stress reaction in his left foot. He hopes to beginning running on the treadmill later this week. George doesn’t think he’ll suit up during the preseason and remains unsure whether he’ll be ready for the regular-season opener Oct. 31 at Cleveland.