Utah Jazz: Kirilenko returns to Russia for personal reasons

Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko has left the team to return to his native Russia and tend to a personal, undisclosed family matter there.

The absence is "excused," a team spokesman said.

Kirilenko will miss the Jazz's exhibition games Thursday night at home vs. Portland and on Saturday against the Clippers in Los Angeles.

He is expected to rejoin the team in time to play Sunday, when the Jazz will play — depending on the outcome of Saturday's games — either Charlotte or the Lakers in Los Angeles.

— Tim Buckley