Nerlens Noel plans on returning for Mavericks on Wednesday

Dallas Mavericks forward/center Nerlens Noel (left knee soreness) said he's "real likely" to play on Wednesday versus the Washington Wizards.

What It Means:

Noel described his knee as a "little too uncomfortable" to play in Monday's contest against the Toronto Raptors, but did say it was a "close decision." We expect Noel to get back out on the court on Wednesday to end what will have been a three-game absence.

Noel is averaging 11.3 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 22.6 minutes per game this month (four contests). His 2.9 nERD is second on the Mavericks this season and tied for 61st in the NBA.