Mavericks' forward Josh Howard missed his third consecutive game on Tuesday with a sprained left ankle.

It's still uncertain if Howard will be able to return on Friday night against the Lakers.

"It's a lot better, but still day-to-day," Howard said. "I'm very eager. I've just got to get my foot together first and make sure I come back at full strength."

Howard claims that the injury hasn't allowed him to cut.

"An athletic guy like myself, I want to be able to play the game the way I can," Howard said. "As soon as I get that range of motion back, I'll be good."

Dallas has won five-straight.