Mavericks F Howard practices Monday

Dec 1, 2008 - 11:36 PM DALLAS (Ticker) -- Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard practiced Monday and hopes to return to the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Howard, who has missed the last five games with a sprained left ankle, reported no problems following the workout.

Dallas' second-leading scorer, Howard admitted he was experiencing some pain and said he would probably play Tuesday if there was no overnight swelling in his ankle.

"I'd love to come back tomorrow," Howard told reporters. "We'll just see how it reacts."

Howard, 28, has averaged 20.3 points and 8.2 rebounds in nine games this season. The swingman has not played since injuring his ankle against the Charlotte Bobcats on November 18.