Pacers G Collison out, could lose starting job

By CLIFF BRUNT

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Indiana Pacers point guard Darren Collison will miss Thursday night's game against the Milwaukee Bucks because of a sore groin, and his starting job is in jeopardy.

George Hill has been starting in Collison's place and has averaged 14.3 points and 5.0 assists during a six-game win streak. Pacers coach Frank Vogel said Hill has done enough to remain the starter, but he hasn't decided who will get the nod if Collison recovers.

Collison, who averages 10.6 points and 4.9 assists, played briefly against Minnesota on Monday, but was inactive against Philadelphia on Tuesday and is inactive against Milwaukee.

Vogel says he's not sure Collison can become fully healthy before the playoffs. He said the team needs both players to be healthy to be at its best.

Updated April 19, 2012