WASHINGTON (AP)_ Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas returned to the Washington starting lineup Tuesday night against the Atlanta Hawks, after missing 14 games with an abdominal injury.

The Wizards have lost 11 of 14 without Arenas, who is averaging 20 points and 5.4 assists this season.

Before the game, Washington coach Eddie Jordan said a decision on whether or not Arenas would start would be made right before the opening tip.

``We're not holding back,'' Jordan said. ``If he's ready, he's ready.''

The Wizards activated Arenas minutes later.

The guard seemed confident that he was returning to the lineup.

``It's up to Coach,'' Arenas said before the game. ``Most likely I'll start.''