This is the first year of Michael Dickerson?s six year, $43 million contract.  

So far he?s played a total of 23 minutes in two games.  Those were the first two games, and he has been on the injured reserve since then.

Dickerson was re-activated earlier this week, and dressed for Wednesday nights game against New Jersey.  However, he didn?t play.

Dickerson suffered a groin injury four games into last season, and didn?t play after that.  He tried to come back earlier this season, but wasn?t ready.

Ron Tillery of the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports that Dickerson looks in great shape.  Better still, he is pain-free.

Tillery reports that Dickerson ran teammate Gordan Giracek ragged at a Tuesday practice, then ?blew by Shane Battier at the top of the key, drove hard through the lane and finished with a strong layup.?

For his part, Dickerson isn?t talking to the press.  He?ll do that after he?s played in a game.