It wasn't much of a practice, but it meant the world to Anderson Varejao.

The Cavaliers' second-year power forward took part in his first full-contact workout since he dislocated his right shoulder in August. It wasn't a full-team workout Monday -- most players just took some shots and lifted weights -- but it was a big step for Varejao, who played 3-on-3 and got physical with teammates.

He'll take part in a full-go workout today before the Cavs fly to Milwaukee for Wednesday's game against the Bucks and could be available to play in games in a week or so.

``I'm getting more and more confidence in the shoulder,'' Varejao said. ``I'm excited to come back and play.''

Varejao underwent a complex surgery to fix the injury in September, and the Cavs ruled him out indefinitely. When training camp started in October, they hoped that he'd be back by the All-Star break next month. But he has worked hard and has been ahead of that schedule the whole way.

``It was the first opportunity for him to bang and get in the mix,'' Cavs coach Mike Brown said. ``I'm anxious to see him get going. He's got a lively body.''