ROTATION: Starters -- Point guard Jason Kidd, Shooting guard Roddy Beaubois, Small forward Quinton Ross, Power forward Dirk Nowitzki, Center Drew Gooden. Bench -- Guard Jason Terry, Guard J.J. Barea, Forward Kris Humphries, Forward Tim Thomas. PLAYER NOTES: --G Josh Howard hasn't put an exact date on his return to the lineup, but he insists it won't be long. The swingman has missed the last five games with ankle issues after returning for three.
"I'm working hard," Howard said. "I'm doing the things I need to do to get back. I'll be back sooner rather than later."
--G Jason Kidd recorded his second double-double of the season Friday night against Sacramento. His 15 points and 11 assists was also the first double-double involving assists. Kidd added three steals and 32 minutes.
--G Jason Terry scored 20 points Friday against Sacramento for his third 20-point game off the bench this season. He single-handedly outscored the opposing bench (14) for the second time this season.
--F Tim Thomas contributed 11 points and seven rebounds in 24 minutes in just his second game of the season. Thomas returned with 13 minutes Wednesday against San Antonio.
MEDICAL WATCH:
--F Josh Howard (sore ankle) is back on the inactive list rehabbing. No timetable has been set for his return.
--C Erick Dampier (illness) has missed the last four games. He's currently undergoing tests and the illness hasn't been disclosed.
--F Shawn Marion (ankle sprain) didn't play Friday against Sacramento.
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