Pro Basketball News

Mavs' Howard back after 11-game absence (AP) (sports.yahoo.com)

Josh Howard is returning to the Dallas Mavericks just in time for the playoff push. The former All-Star was in the starting lineup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night after an 11-game absence because of a sore left ankle. His return is a huge boost for a team that is trying to distance itself from Phoenix in the Western Conference playoff race.