Dirk Nowitzki twisted his left ankle late in the second quarter of a 110-82 loss at Denver on Sunday night. As the three-time All-Star left the arena on crutches, there were fears that it might be a severe sprain, but after viewing an MRI on Monday, doctors said Nowitzki should be back within seven to 10 days.

A week would force him out against the Timberwolves, Spurs, Trail Blazers and Grizzlies. His projected return is either next Tuesday against San Antonio or two days later against Houston.

"We're kind of pleased with how he was walking today," Mavs coach Don Nelson said. "He will miss some games, not as serious as we thought when he first did it."