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Los Angeles • Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko made it through 31 games.

After showing up for training camp in improved shape and playing a key role in Utah's early season success, the often-injured 10-year veteran was forced to miss his first contest of the season Wednesday night against the Clippers due to a lower back strain.

Kirilenko suffered the injury Monday during the second quarter of a loss to Portland. While he is able to walk freely, Kirilenko is unable to bend or jump without pain. He estimated that he will be out 1-2 days, acknowledging that playing Saturday versus Memphis is more likely than taking the court tonight versus the Blazers.

The longtime Jazzman said that he has taken pride in his ability to stay healthy this season, eating healthier and taking extra care of his body.

"I'm feeling very excited that I've been able to kind of manage it," said Kirilenko, who has dealt with back spasms before and played through thigh and finger injuries this season.

Plus one?

Guard Deron Williams said that whether or not Utah makes a move to help the team is a decision best left to the Jazz's front office.

With Mehmet Okur's return, Utah's active roster stands at 13. The Jazz have several valuable trade pieces, but everything from locker-room chemistry to on-the-court roles could be greatly affected.

Williams conceded that it could be tough for Utah to significantly alter its makeup, though, since the Jazz are above the NBA salary cap and in the luxury tax.

"We like our team," Williams said. "That's up to [management] to decide."

Team player

Reserve center Kyrylo Fesenko is eligible to be traded and is dealing with a reduced role following Okur's activation.

Fesenko would have to greenlight a deal, and could see increased minutes in a different setting. However, he gave no indication prior to tipoff versus the Clippers that he was unhappy or frustrated with his role on the Jazz. Fesenko said that he spent a lot of time last summer debating whether he should re-sign with Utah. Now, the fourth-year center is along for the ride.

"It's not something I didn't expect," said Fesenko, referring to his situation with the Jazz. "Just stay in shape and be ready. Whenever coach calls you, just put it in."

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