Would-be starting point guard Deron Williams will not play in the Jazz's 2008-09 NBA regular-season opener on Wednesday, general manager Kevin O'Connor said this afternoon.

Williams has been sidelined since he sustained a second-degree inversion sprain to his left ankle during an Oct. 18 preseason game at Chicago.

"He's done everything humanly possible to get ready," O'Connor said today. "He's just not ready to go."

O'Connor also said Williams is "doubtful" for the Jazz's game Saturday against the Los Angeles Clippers.

A team spokesman had said this morning that Williams had "increased (his) rehab activity" through running, but that he was still undergoing treatment at the start of the Jazz's practice today.

He did do some running and took part in some shooting drills Monday morning, but did not participate in the full practice.

The Jazz open the regular season Wednesday night vs. Denver at EnergySolutions Arena.

With Williams out, Utah Valley product Ronnie Price will get the start at point guard - his fifth NBA start in four seasons.

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E-mail: tbuckley@desnews.com