Stockton’s Return Sparks the Jazz

A physical game against a tough opponent was just what John Stockton needed.

Stockton, playing his first game of the season after recovering from knee surgery, had 10 points and seven assists in 20 minutes as the Utah Jazz beat the Indiana Pacers, 106-97, Monday night at Salt Lake City.

“This kind of game makes you forget about everything else,” said Stockton, the NBA’s career assist leader. “It was a brutal game in some ways, and I had to concentrate on that.”

Stockton converted a three-point play on Utah’s first possession and scored eight points in the first 5:37 of the game to spark Utah.

Orlando 95, Philadelphia 86--Rony Seikaly scored 24 points as the Magic made 11 of its first 14 shots in the final period en route to victory at Orlando, Fla.

Orlando lost Nick Anderson, who broke a bone in his right hand and will miss at least four weeks.

Miami 105, New Jersey 97--Tim Hardaway scored 23 points and the Heat took advantage of a fast start in Miami.

Hardaway sank two three-point baskets to help Miami build a 20-3 lead. The Nets missed 10 of their first 11 shots.