Mavericks' forward Josh Howard was on the court for just 14 minutes on Monday and is hopeful that he'll return to the starting lineup soon.

Dallas coach Rick Carlisle is trying to ease Howard back into his typical starting role, which means 35 minutes per game.

"I haven't really had a chance to practice," Howard said. "Of course, I have to get my reps out there on the practice court and it will come; that's all I can say."

Before missing 11 consecutive games, Howard had averaged 20.3 points and 8.2 rebounds.

"The major thing is for him to not start too early again and fall back again," said Dirk Nowitzki. "We need his athleticism back there. Hopefully, he'll stay in the lineup again, work his way up, get his wind back and be back to his old self in no time."