41.   Hampton said his knee was so sore he could barely run.

42.   He has had no swelling since attempting to skate at training camp five months ago, before his right knee was strong enough.

43.   He also was being treated for an ulcer and his knees were a source of constant discomfort.

44.   He had knee surgery last off-season and very likely began playing before the knee was ready.

45.   He prays so much that his knees are worn bloody and sore.

46.   He had initially hinted at a mid-August return, but his left knee has been slow to recover from arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

47.   He has been working out in Puerto Rico, but his knee is not at full strength.

48.   He said his knee is fine.

49.   He said his knee was fine until just before the game, when it became sore while running.

50.   He was darting, making people miss and exploding past defenders as if his knee had never been a twisted mess.