The Mavericks could be without forward Josh Howard in Game 3 against the Nuggets on Saturday afternoon because of his sore right ankle.

Howard sat out practice on Thursday because of the injury, which he sprained in Game 1.

"We're hoping that he'll be able to go Saturday," coach Rick Carlisle said, "but I can't give you a definite at this point."

Howard tried to play in Tuesday's Game 2, but left after just six minutes.