NEW YORK, N.Y. - The Brooklyn Nets say Deron Williams' injured rib will sideline the point guard through their three-game road trip.

Williams is working his way back from fractured left rib cartilage. He missed his seventh consecutive game Wednesday night at Sacramento.

The Nets say Williams "has begun on-court non-contact work," but is still experiencing pain.

The former All-Star has battled injuries since signing a $98.5 million, five-year contract in July 2012. He originally hurt his rib Jan. 4 in Miami, and then lasted only four minutes when he tried to return three days later.

Williams is averaging 13.9 points and 6.3 assists in 32 games this season.