Mavericks forward Josh Howard is expected to return from a lingering ankle injury on Tuesday night against the Timberwolves.

"He looked great," teammate Jason Terry said. "Even last week, he was good in our last hard practice. He looked confident.

"I know he felt a little bit of pain, but the biggest test will be tomorrow," Terry added, referring to Tuesday's game. "If he hits that first shot, I'll bet he won't feel a thing tomorrow."

Howard's injury is severe enough that he could have off-season surgery, but he feels good enough to help the team during their stretch run.