Dwyane Wade's surgically repaired knee survived its first real test with no setbacks.

During Wade's first full-contact practice this season with the Miami Heat, rookie center Joel Anthony threw his 6-foot-9, 260-pound body toward Wade as he headed toward the basket.

After six months, he was more than anxious to see how he'd handle getting fouled again.

"It finally came," Wade said. "I needed to go get that first hit and I appreciate Joel for that."

Wade, however, still has not set a date when he'll be back in uniform for the Heat, who have started the season 0-3.

"It was just good to be back out there playing, to be back out there practicing," said Wade. "Every player loves the games and not too many love practice, but today I loved practice -- for the first time."

One thing Wade made clear: Miami's slow start isn't a good enough reason for him to rush back into the lineup before he's certain the knee is ready.

When he returns, Wade wants to be back to stay.

"My prognostical prognosis, my assumption, I'll say about three weeks," Heat center Shaquille O'Neal said. "He's still D-Wade. He looks good out there. We're avoiding the very, very rough contact, but he's shooting the ball well and getting guys involved. When he gets out there, it's going to be fun."