Forward Darvin Ham, out since undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on Oct. 22, was able to put in his first full practice since the procedure. That took some of the focus away from point guard Sam Cassell (abdominal strain) and shooting guard Ray Allen (sore knee), neither of whom made it through the workout.

Cassell, who hurt himself last Wednesday at Washington and was unable to play Saturday night against Utah, said he wasn't sure if he would be ready to play in the Bucks' next game Wednesday against Chicago.

Allen attempted to practice before retiring to the sideline, complaining of pain in his right knee. It's the same knee that caused Allen to miss a training-camp practice last month. Karl took Allen to task for sitting out then, but seemed more patient with his all-star guard Monday.

As for Ham, the team was not surprised to learn that his return timetable might be accelerated. Ham was expected to miss up to six weeks, but his strenuous work habits and positive outlook could have him ready to come off the injured list any day now.

"He looked like a young tiger ready to go," Karl said.

Said Ham: "Today was phenomenal, man. I'm not too far behind, not as far as I thought I'd be. I credit the trainers and the coaches for being patient and working with me, and now I'm ready for a full season.

"We're not weeks away. We're days. Just give me time to get my lungs together and get in unison with the rest of my teammates and I think it's going to be a good fit."