The news was good regarding Dirk Nowitzki's left knee.

The mood? That was improving, too, although when you are completely downcast, it doesn't take much to perk up your disposition.

The Mavericks' chances in the Western Conference finals still sit somewhere between unlikely and hopeless, but at least they got back on the practice court Saturday knowing that they aren't completely dead against the San Antonio Spurs and that their best player isn't seriously hurt.

Nowitzki's MRI test showed that he suffered a sprain to the ligaments that hold his left kneecap in place. The typical recovery time is 10 days to two weeks, although doctors wouldn't rule out a more rapid return.

The 7-foot Nowitzki is officially listed as doubtful for Sunday's Game 4 at American Airlines Center, but Mavericks coach Don Nelson declared Nowitzki definitely out. Regardless, the information from the MRI had everybody in an upbeat mood, particularly Nowitzki.