Dwight Howard (back) ruled out for Wizards' opener Thursday night, Ian Mahinmi starting versus Heat

Washington Wizards forward/center Dwight Howard (back) will not play versus the Miami Heat in Thursday's season opener.

What It Means:

Howard "still needs more practice time," according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports. Ian Mahinmi will start and Markieff Morris could also see some run at the five.

numberFire's models currently project Howard for 12.7 points, 10.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game this season.