Warriors' Cousins, Jones likely to return

If the Golden State Warriors last long enough in the NBA playoffs, they could get some very big help. Coach Steve Kerr told reporters on Sunday that centers DeMarcus Cousins and Damian Jones are getting closer to a return.

Kerr didn't have a timetable but said Cousins, a six-time All-Star, is progressing and has started taking part in some light shooting drills. Cousins tore the quad muscle in his left leg in Game 2 of the first round of the playoffs against the Los Angeles Clippers but did not require surgery. Jones tore a pectoral muscle in December and has been sidelined since.

Kerr said he expects Jones to be cleared for contact this week. "It's a possibility he could be back, and same with DeMarcus, he's come a pretty long way so we'll just wait and see," Kerr said.

Golden State leads Houston 2-1 in their best-of-seven Western Conference semifinals series. Game 4 is set for Monday night in Houston.