News: The Timberwolves announced Thursday that they have released veteran forward Josh Howard, after he was diagnosed with a torn ACL that will end his season. The injury will require surgery, and will likely keep him out until next season.
Analysis: Howard had been dealing with the injury for a few days, but this is the first that we have heard of it being a serious issue. Howard was playing just a bit role for the Timberwolves this season, so he did not have much Fantasy value. He was averaging 6.7 points and 3.3 rebounds per game in 11 games. He should not be owned in any Fantasy formats at this time.
News: Timberwolves forward Josh Howard will miss both games on the team's upcoming road trip because of a hyperextended knee he suffered last Friday at New Orleans, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. Howard will be sidelined Monday at Orlando, as well as Tuesday's outing against Miami. He could possibly return to the lineup when the Timberwolves return home Thursday against Oklahoma City.
Analysis: In addition to the injury, Howard has seen his minutes drop following the return of Andrei Kirilenko to the lineup after overcoming an injury. He has not exceeded 20 minutes in the last two games he's played in, though he did leave in the third quarter last Friday after logging seven minutes. He is now averaging just 6.7 points per game and does not make enough of an impact to be considered a quality Fantasy option at this point.
News: Minnesota forward Josh Howard, who has a hyperextended right knee, will not play Saturday against Dallas, reports the team. Howard is day to day but may need to sit a few games before he's able to return to action.
Analysis: Howard was just returning from a one-game absence due to an illness and now has another ailment to deal with. However, this has been the story of the 32-year-old's career as he has always had trouble staying healthy for long stretches of time. Howard is averaging 7.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game and should only be owned in deeper formats as a reserve option at this point in the season.
News: Timberwolves forward Josh Howard was forced to leave Minnesota's game against the Hornets Friday night after hyperextending his right knee in the third quarter. Howard was unable to return to the 113-102 win and finished with three points and two rebounds prior to leaving the contest.
Analysis: Howard was just returning from a one-game absence due to an illness and now has another ailment to deal with. However, this has been the story of the 32-year-old's career as he has always had trouble staying healthy for long stretches of time. Howard is averaging 7.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game and should only be owned in deeper formats as a reserve option at this point in the season.
News: Timberwolves forward Josh Howard was able to get back on the floor for Friday's contest against the Hornets after sitting out Minnesota's last game with an illness. Howard is averaging 7.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, while logging 20.0 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Howard has turned in a few solid performances sign joining the T' Woves for the most part he has been used as merely a role player. While he can still light up the scoreboard from time time, Fantasy owners should consider the 32-year-old merely a low-end option in deeper formats at this point in the season.
News: Timberwolves forward Josh Howard was unable to play Wednesday against the Nuggets, due to an illness. He is considered day to day and is not expected miss any further time.
Analysis: Howard has done a decent job filling in for the Timberwolves, who signed him after the season began. He is averaging 7.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, while playing 20.0 minutes per game. He is unlikely to be more than a role player moving forward, so he has very little Fantasy value outside of deeper formats moving forward.
News: Minnesota small forward Josh Howard had a big-time performance on Tuesday in a win at Philadelphia. Howard helped the Wolves dominate on this night as he scored 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the double-double. He played 29 minutes and was one of seven players in double figures for the Wolves. Howard added a steal and hit two 3-pointers in the game.
Analysis: Howard was not coming anywhere near this kind of production in his seven previous games for Minnesota. Fantasy owners would really appreciate Howard to start getting hot but we're not sure he'll be able to produce as he did Tuesday on a consistent basis. He's a wait-and-see candidate for now.
News: Timberwolves forward Josh Howard started his second game in a row Friday against the Bucks, as Andrei Kirilenko continues to deal with a back injury. Howard played 24 minutes in the game, scoring eight points on 3 of 8 shooting. He added four rebounds and two assists, in a 95-85 win.
Analysis: Howard has seen between 15 and 20 minutes most nights for the Wolves, which was exactly what we expected. He has more shot attempts (45) than points (41) on the season, so Fantasy owners should continue to ignore him in most formats.
News:Josh Howard played his third game for the Timberwolves on Friday against Trail Blazers and had his best performance yet. He scored 10 points and hauled in seven rebounds in the 103-95 loss. Howard went 5 for 8 from the floor but missed his lone attempt from downtown while playing 22 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Howard is expected to see 15-20 minutes off the bench on a nightly basis for Minnesota so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Since he has not been a reliable option in Fantasy for a few years, however, continue to ignore the 32-year-old in the majority of formats.
News: The injury-plagued Timberwolves agreed to a one-year deal with veteran free agent forward Josh Howard Thursday. The team waived guard Will Conroy to make room for Howard. Howard will receive the veteran’s minimum and will likely backup Andrie Kirilenko at the small forward spot.
Analysis: Howard scored 8.7 points per game in 43 contests with the Jazz last season, and he has proven himself to be not particularly durable. At 32, it is not clear how much Howard has left in the tank, and he will likely only be asked to serve as a role player. Howard is unlikely to be worth adding in the majority of Fantasy formats moving forward.
News: Jazz forward Josh Howard was able to get back on the court for Tuesday night's contest against the Suns. Howard, who hadn't seen the court since March 15, finished with four points and one rebound in six minutes off the bench in the 100-88 win.
Analysis: Howard's goal was to get back before the start of the postseason and the 31-year-old was able to do exactly that. He will now have a chance to play in the postseason for Utah, although he will have to get himself back into game shape first. Howard's first season with the Jazz was again filled with injuries as he continues to be plagued by chronic knee issues. While Howard still shows flashes of his former self at times, he should be considered nothing more than a low-end reserve option when healthy.
News: Despite previous reports stating that he would miss the rest of the season with a knee injury, Jazz forward Josh Howard told the Salt Lake Tribune that he hopes to make his return to the court on April 24 against the Suns, as he continues to recover from arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. He hopes to begin participating in team drills next week.
Analysis: Howard has remained optimistic about his chances for return this season, and it looks like that was the right way for him to look at it, as it appears he will now have a chance to get back before the playoffs. Still, it likely won’t come until the last few days of the season if it happens at all, so Fantasy owners should not wait on the veteran, as he is unlikely to make a difference that late.
News: Utah small forward Josh Howard (knee surgery) was riding the stationary bike and lifting weights on Tuesday as he continues his recovery from knee surgery, reports the Salt Lake Tribune. Howard has previously stated that his worst-case scenario would see him back in the playoffs.
Analysis: Howard may or may not be back for the playoffs for Utah, but Fantasy owners need not have him on rosters any longer. It is already the Fantasy playoffs in most leagues. It is now safe for owners in all leagues to release Howard since even if he does return for the end of the regular season he won't be of much help. When healthy, Howard has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News: The Salt Lake Tribune reports that after receiving a second opinion Wednesday about his injured left knee, Jazz forward Josh Howard still plans to undergo surgery. Howard will likely have an arthroscopic-type procedure Thursday. He's expected to be treated by the same doctor who helped him recover from an anterior cruciate ligament tear in February 2010. While the surgery is a setback for Howard — he was promoted March 5 to Utah's starting lineup and was averaging 8.7 points in 41 games — the second opinion was more positive than even the nine-year veteran was hoping for. If the surgery goes as planned, Howard could be riding a stationary bike in about a week. He also might be able to return for the end of the 2011-12 regular season if there are no setbacks in his recovery. If Howard is unable to rejoin Utah before a April 26 finale against Portland and the Jazz qualify for the postseason, he plans to be ready for the first round of the playoffs.
Analysis: It is now safe for owners in all leagues to release Howard since even if he does return for the end of the regular season he won't be of much help. When healthy, Howard has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News: The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Jazz forward Josh Howard's season might not be over yet. The Jazz announced Tuesday that Howard will miss the remainder of the regular season due to upcoming left knee surgery. After experiencing recent swelling, Howard underwent an MRI on Monday. The test, which was evaluated Tuesday by a team doctor, revealed a chip in Howard’s lateral femoral cartilage. Jazz general manager Kevin O’Connor said Tuesday night Howard will receive a second opinion, though. And Howard said he’s hoping for the best when he travels to New York on Wednesday to visit the same doctor who treated him in February 2010, when Howard suffered a torn ACL in his left knee. Even with surgery, Howard expects to miss only 4-6 weeks. That could put his return in line with a first-round playoff series if Utah qualifies for the postseason.
Analysis: Howard was averaging 8.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 41 games (18 starts). Fantasy owners should keep an eye on what happens with Howard, and hopefully he can return during the regular season. But even if he does Howard has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues.
News: Jazz forward Josh Howard will undergo season-ending surgery on his left knee, reports the Salt Lake Tribune. Howard, who had been dealing with swelling in his knee, underwent an MRI on Monday which revealed a chip in the left lateral femoral cartilage. The 31-year-old averaged 11.0 points and 5.0 rebounds in 15 starts this season. With Raja Bell also sidelined, C.J. Miles, Gordon Hayward and Alec Burks are expected to see increased minutes moving forward.
Analysis: Tough blow for Howard as the 41 games he appeared in was his highest total since the 2008-09 season. He will now undergo surgery sometime over the next week or so and will have to try and get himself healthy for the start of next season. Fantasy owners in all seasonal formats should go ahead and drop Howard at this time.
News:The Salt Lake Tribune reports a source close to Jazz forward Josh Howard said as of Wednesday evening that he is expected to remain with Utah through the NBA trade deadline, which is Thursday.
Analysis: It's easy to see why a contender might be interested in Howard. He's back in an NBA starting lineup and producing. He has scored in double figures in 10 of his last 12 games. His rebounding and defense has also improved over that span. Even if he is dealt, however, Howard would remain a low-end Fantasy start. We can't see him gaining that much more Fantasy value.
News: Utah forward Josh Howard scored 12 points on a 4-for-10 shooting effort on Wednesday night against Charlotte. Despite dealing with an illness earlier in the day, Howard was able to start and gave the Jazz 32 minutes of action. Howard added three steals and five rebounds in his team's 99-93 victory.
Analysis: Howard has been playing well for the Jazz, so it's good to see this illness didn't hold him back. Over his last five outings he's averaging 12.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. It doesn't seem like Howard will miss any time because of this illness moving forward, which means he should be considered a decent start in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: The Deseret News reports that Jazz forward Josh Howard (illness) went through shootaround Wednesday and got the start in the night's game against the Bobcats at Charlotte.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Howard active against the Bobcats, and he is a quality option when healthy. He has played well since being moved into the starting lineup, and hopefully he doesn't suffer a setback with his illness.
News: The Jazz report that forward Josh Howard (sinus infection) did not practice Tuesday but is expected to play Wednesday at Charlotte.
Analysis: Howard continues to play well since he moved into the starting lineup, and hopefully he will remain active against the Bobcats. Fantasy owners in daily leagues should continue to monitor what happens with Howard, and he is a quality option when healthy and active.
News: The Jazz shook up their starting lineup some on Monday, but one thing that stayed constant was Josh Howard’s presence, as he started his seventh straight game against the Cavaliers. Howard continued his solid play in the game, scoring 14 points on 6 of 14 shooting in 25 minutes, as the Jazz defeated the Cavs 109-100. Howard also added five rebounds and steals in the game.
Analysis: Howard has now scored in double figures in each of his seven starts, as he appears to have cemented his spot in the starting lineup. He is averaging 13.7 points since moving into the lineup, and at this point has emerged as a useful Fantasy option in most formats. Now that it’s pretty clear that this is his role, Fantasy owners should be confident relying on him moving forward.
News: Utah small forward Josh Howard entered the second half of the NBA season in the starting lineup for the Jazz on Tuesday night in Sacramento. Howard had scored 19 points in a start at Minnesota on the Wednesday before All-Star Weekend.
Analysis: Howard averaged 8.0 points, 3.4 rebounds and ugly shooting percentages over the first half of the season while playing 21.7 minutes per game. He's been seeing around 30 minutes of late as a starter, however, and that boosts his Fantasy value entering the second half of the year. Still, Howard remains only viable to start in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Jazz forward Josh Howard got the start on Monday against the Spurs with Raja Bell out and had a decent performance. He scored 12 points and hauled in seven rebounds in the 106-102 loss. He went 4 for 8 from the floor and made all four of his free throws while playing 29 minutes. Howard also posted an assist, a steal and a block in the defeat.
Analysis: Howard scored in double figures for the first time since Feb. 4 on Monday and took advantage of his start. If Bell misses more time, the 31-year-old might be worth a look in deeper Fantasy formats so keep an eye on the situation going forward. But even if that happens, Howard remains some to avoid in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Utah SF Josh Howard only saw 13 minutes of run on Monday during a loss at New Orleans. Howard missed his only shot attempt and failed to score in the game. He grabbed one rebound and had one turnover for the Jazz.
Analysis: The 31-year-old Howard is averaging just 2.8 points per game over his last five. Playing around 15-20 minutes per night, Howard is doing little and is not worth having active in just about any Fantasy formats at the moment.
News: Utah forward Josh Howard had his best night of the season on Thursday night against Golden State. Howard shot 70 percent from the floor and finished with a season-high 19 points. He went 4 for 5 at the charity stripe and hit one 3-pointer. He added two boards and four assists in 40 minutes of action. It wouldn't be enough, however, as the Jazz lost to the Warriors 119-101.
Analysis: We all know Howard can score, but he just hasn't shown that side of his game much this year. He's averaging 8.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game over his last five games. Depending on how long Devin Harris and Raja Bell are out with injuries, Howard may be asked to carry more of the load. Despite his nice outing on Thursday, Howard has to put together a few solid games in a row to warrant more Fantasy attention outside the deepest of formats.
News: Utah F Josh Howard got the start on Monday night against Portland with Raja Bell out and had his best scoring performance in awhile. He finished with 11 points and seven rebounds in the 93-89 win. He went 5 for 15 from the floor, including 1 for 2 from downtown, and missed both of his free throws. Howard, who played 38 minutes, also chipped in with four assists in the victory.
Analysis: Howard has shown that he can score when given the minutes in his first season with the Jazz so hopefully his performance on Monday will earn him some more playing time going forward. He has scored in double digits seven times thus far, but it not putting up much else in other stats. Keep an eye on his progress but until he proves to be more consistent, leave Howard for deeper Fantasy formats.
News: After missing the previous four games due to a quad injury, Jazz F Josh Howard returned on Wednesday against the Raptors. He finished with zero points while playing 16 minutes off the bench in the 111-106 double-overtime loss. He missed all five of the shots he took and posted five rebounds.
Analysis: The Jazz said that Howard would be limited in his return so owners should keep an eye on his progress going forward. He entered Wednesday averaging 10.7 points per game, but he is not the Fantasy option he once was. Howard is just an option in deeper Fantasy formats when active.
News: Jazz coach Tyrone Corbin said forward Josh Howard will be limited in his return from a quadriceps injury Wednesday against the Raptors. Howard has missed the last four games.
Analysis: Corbin wouldn't say how many minutes Howard will play, but it seems the team wants to ease him back into action. Howard is averaging 10.7 points per game with the Jazz, but he is not the Fantasy option he once was. Howard is just an option in deeper Fantasy formats when active.
News: Utah F Josh Howard (quadriceps) was upgraded to probable for Wednesday's game against Toronto, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Howard, who was originally listed as day to day, has missed the team's past four games with a strained quad.
Analysis: Howard's return appears imminent as he attempts to recover from the latest setback in his injury-plagued career. The 31-year-old had been limited to only 22 games in the past two years entering this season because of persistent knee injuries. He is averaging 10.7 points per game and receiving a quality 23.0 minutes a night. Fantasy owners should consider him a viable option in deeper formats when healthy.
News: Utah F Josh Howard said Monday that his strained quad is feeling better and he hopes to play during Wednesday's game against Toronto, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Howard, who has missed the past four games, will test out the injury to determine if he can play.
Analysis: Howard seems to be nearing a return to the court as he attempts to recover from the latest setback in his injury-plagued career. The 31-year-old had been limited to only 22 games in the past two years entering this season because of persistent knee injuries. He is averaging 10.7 points per game and receiving a quality 23.0 minutes a night. Fantasy owners should consider him a viable option in deeper formats when healthy.
News: Utah F Josh Howard was ruled out for Saturday's game against Minnesota because of a quadriceps strain. It's the fourth consecutive game Howard has missed because of the injury. He was considered a game-time decision after being a limited participant in Friday's practice.
Analysis: Howard has looked good in his return from an ACL injury, but he can't seem to shake his latest setback. He is averaging 10.7 points per game and was expected to see a bump in playing time before the injury. Consider him a worthwhile option in deeper Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Utah F Josh Howard is listed as day to day with a nagging quadriceps strain, according to the Salt Lake Tribune. Howard was a limited participant in practice Friday and is considered a game-time decision for Saturday's game against Minnesota.
Analysis: Howard has missed the past three games for the Jazz and it appears he could be sidelined again versus Minnesota on Saturday. The 31-year-old veteran has looked good in his return from an ACL injury, but the quad issue is slowing his progress. He is averaging 10.7 points per game and was expected to see a bump in playing time before the injury. Consider him a worthwhile option in deeper Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: As expected, Jazz forward Josh Howard will sit out Thursday against the Mavs because of a quadriceps injury. The Salt Lake Tribune reports Howard might return Saturday against the Timberwolves if he continues to progress. Howard will miss a third straight game Thursday.
Analysis: If Howard isn't back Saturday, then he is going to remain an injury-risk start for Week 5 (Jan. 23-29). Howard has been a decent scoring option for the Jazz this season, but he still isn't posting big-time numbers. Howard is worth using only in deeper Fantasy formats when active.
News: Jazz SF Josh Howard (strained left quadriceps) will not practice Wednesday and doesn't believe he will play Thursday against the Mavs. "It's a day-to-day thing," he said. "I'll continue to do my rehab. I'll strengthen it as much as I can 'til it feels better."
Analysis: Howard has missed the last two games and it seems he will miss a third straight Thursday. Howard has been a decent scoring option for the Jazz this season, but he still isn't posting big-time numbers. Howard is worth using only in deeper Fantasy formats when active.
News: The Deseret News reports Tuesday that Utah SF Josh Howard (quad) received treatment on his injury during the morning hours. Unfortunately, Howard said he would be in a suit and had to miss Tuesday's game against the Clippers. Howard is considered day to day for the Jazz at this point.
Analysis: The 31-year-old Howard missed his second consecutive game on Tuesday with his quad injury. Howard had come off back-to-back solid efforts against the Cavaliers and Lakers, but was injured shortly after to halt momentum. Putting up 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game this season over 23 minutes, Howard is worth using only in deeper Fantasy formats, when healthy.
News: Utah F Josh Howard (quad) is unlikely to play in Tuesday's game against the Clippers after being listed as doubtful, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Howard, who is averaging 10.7 points per game, missed his first game of the season on Sunday because of a strained left quad.
Analysis: Howard has been plagued by injuries throughout the past few seasons, but finally appeared to be healthy in his first campaign with the Jazz. He had received a larger role in the offense and coach Tyrone Corbin said he would be comfortable providing Howard 30-35 minutes per game. The quad injury doesn't appear to be serious, but Fantasy owners should monitor his status as he is a decent option in deeper formats.
News: The Jazz will be without F Josh Howard on Sunday as he is dealing with a strained left quad which will keep him out of the game against the Nuggets. It is the first time this season Howard will miss a game, after missing 64, 57 and 31 games over his previous three seasons.
Analysis: Howard has been moving more and more towards a larger role in the Jazz offense as the season has gone on, and coach Tyrone Corbin has said he’d feel comfortable giving Howard 30-35 minutes per game. He has been dealing with the injury for a week, but this is the first game he will miss because of it. At this point, it doesn’t appear as if the injury is too serious, but Fantasy owners will want to watch his progress to make sure he’s healthy moving forward if they intend on using him as a low-end forward.
News: Utah coach Tyrone Corbin said he feels comfortable giving Jazz F Josh Howard 30-35 minutes of playing time a game, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Howard logged a season-high 34 minutes during Wednesday's game against the Lakers and finished with 18 points and four rebounds. It was the second game in a row he has reached double-digits in points -- the first time he's accomplished that feat this year.
Analysis: Corbin refused to say whether Howard will be inserted into the starting lineup, but his devotion to keeping him on the floor is encouraging. Howard is averaging 11.4 points over his past five games and is shooting 48 percent from the field in that span. Most importantly, he's staying healthy. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how he responds to the increased playing time as he could be worth an addition in deeper formats.
News: Jazz F Josh Howard was able to score in double digits for the sixth time this season on Wednesday against the Lakers. He finished with 18 points and hauled in four rebounds in the 90-87 overtime loss. He went 6 for 14 from the floor, including going 2 for 3 from downtown, and made 4 of 5 free throws. Howard, who played 34 minutes off the bench, also chipped in with two assists and a steal in the defeat.
Analysis: After a down campaign in Washington, Howard has been able to get back on track so far this season and is supplying the Jazz with some decent scoring off the bench. He is averaging 11.4 points with 2.6 rebounds and a steal in his last five games, and is shooting 48 percent from the field over that span. While he is not a contributor in other categories, his scoring alone gives him value in Fantasy. Continue to view Howard as a viable option in the deepest of formats at this point.
News: After leaving the game on Wednesday with an injured left quad in the first quarter, Jazz F Josh Howard played on Friday as the Jazz defeated the Grizzlies 94-85. He said before the game that he would try to ‘give it a go’ but that he was still in pain. However, he did not appear limited much by the injury, scoring 13 points in 27 minutes off the bench on four-of-seven shooting and five-of-six from the free-throw line. He added three rebounds and two steals in the game.
Analysis: Howard is trying to recover from knee injuries that have limited him to only 22 games combined in the past two seasons. The 31-year-old, who has never played a full season during his NBA career, is averaging 10.0 points per game this year and is giving the Jazz sporadic boosts off the bench. Consider Howard a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats for now.
News: Utah F Josh Howard said he expects to play in Friday's game against Memphis, according to The Salt Lake City Tribune. Howard left his last game with an injured left quad and was limited to just four minutes. "At these times, coach needs the whole time out there, so I'm going to give him all I got," Howard said after Friday's practice.
Analysis: Howard is trying to recover from knee injuries that have limited him to only 22 games combined in the past two seasons. The 31-year-old, who has never played a full season during his NBA career, is averaging 9.5 points per game this year. He is unlikely to top double-digits in points many times as his strong scoring days are behind him. Consider Howard a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats for now.
News:The Salt Lake Tribune reports Jazz PG Devin Harris (calf) and SF Josh Howard (quadriceps) are getting treatment Thursday and will attempt to practice. Utah plays again Friday against the Grizzlies.
Analysis: Howard was making some progress before hurting his quad. Hopefully, this won't be an injury that lingers and keeps Howard on the sidelines. Still, his best days are probably behind him, so he is definitely more of a low-end Fantasy start when active. Howard's best contributing category is points.
News: Late in the first quarter, Jazz F Josh Howard had to leave the game as he injured his left quad in a game against Milwaukee. He was unable to return and he is officially listed as day-to-day with a strain. Howard saw just four minutes of playing time before the injury, missing both of his field goal attempts and scoring zero points while grabbing two rebounds as the Jazz beat the Bucks 85-73.
Analysis: Howard is trying to come back from a serious knee injury and prove he still has value to NBA teams. He is now averaging 9.5 points and just 2.8 rebounds-per game, and should not be considered a useful Fantasy option at forward in all but the deepest leagues even if the injury doesn’t bother him too much moving forward.
News: Utah SF Josh Howard was fined on Monday by the NBA for his Flagrant 2 foul on San Antonio's James Anderson on Saturday. Howard was fined $25,000. He will not miss any time for the Jazz.
Analysis: On Saturday night, he scored 18 points in a 104-89 loss to the Spurs. He also added seven rebounds and two steals while shooting 6 of 16 from the field and 6 of 6 from the free-throw line in 26 minutes. He is averaging 11 points-per game in 23.3 minutes, making him third on the team in scoring. Howard is averaging just three rebounds per game so far, so besides the scoring, he’s not providing much value. At 31, Howard is hoping to show that he can still be productive in his stint with the Jazz, and he’s been OK. From a Fantasy perspective, he’s been a very low-end forward option, and his value isn’t likely to go up significantly at any point.
News: Jazz F Josh Howard, who has played four games with the team since signing in the offseason, is giving Utah a boost off the bench. On Saturday night, he scored 18 points in a 104-89 loss to the Spurs. He also added seven rebounds and two steals while shooting six-of-16 from the field and six-of-six from the free-throw line in 26 minutes. He is averaging 11 points-per game in 23.3 minutes, making him third on the team in scoring.
Analysis: Howard is averaging just three rebounds per game so far, so besides the scoring, he’s not providing much value. At 31, Howard is hoping to show that he can still be productive in his stint with the Jazz, and he’s been OK. From a Fantasy perspective, he’s been a very low-end forward option, and his value isn’t likely to go up significantly at any point.
News: Newly acquired Jazz F Josh Howard played 20 minutes in the second and final preseason game for the Jazz, as they defeated the Trail Blazers 92-89. Howard shot three of five from the field and two of six from the free throw line to tally eight points in the matchup.
Analysis: Howard, 31, steps into the small forward position where the Jazz don’t have much in the way of depth, having let go of Andrei Kirilenko. Gordon Hayward started the finale of the preseason at that spot. If Howard proves that he is healthy, he could be a Fantasy sleeper for the Jazz, however the days of scoring 17+ points per game are long gone. He isn’t much of a factor on Draft Day, but keep an eye on him to see if he regains any of his old spark in the early going.
News: Free agent F Josh Howard has agreed to terms with the Jazz, according to ESPN.com. Howard has missed 141 games over the last three seasons, as he suffered an ACL tear during the 2009-10 season that kept him out for most of last year. He averaged 8.4 points per game with the Wizards last year in 18 games.
Analysis: Howard, 31, steps into the small forward position where the Jazz don’t have much in the way of depth, having let go of Andrei Kirilenko. If he proves that he is healthy, he could be a Fantasy sleeper for the Jazz, however the days of scoring 17+ points per game are long gone. He isn’t much of a factor on Draft Day, but keep an eye on him to see if he regains any of his old spark in the early going.
News: Utah officials met Tuesday with free-agent F Josh Howard as the Jazz looks to upgrade at small forward. ESPN first reported the Jazz were meeting with Howard, who is entering his ninth season. Howard is reportedly hoping to decide where to sign sometime this week. “We’ve had serious discussions,” Utah general manager Kevin O’Connor acknowledged Saturday when asked about Howard.
Analysis: Several teams want to see Howard work out because he is coming back from a serious knee injury. Howard was a key player for Dallas from 2003-10 and helped the Mavericks in their run to the NBA Finals in 2006. He averaged a career-high 19.9 points in 2007-08. Howard was traded to Washington in February 2010 but tore his ACL the following month. He only appeared in 18 games for Washington last season and averaged 8.4 points. As long as he's healthy, he should be viewed as a possible sleeper in the later rounds of upcoming Fantasy drafts.
News: Free agent SF Josh Howard has attracted considerable interest in his services, reports the Washington Post Saturday. The Wizards as well as "five to six" playoff contenders have expressed interest in Howard. Apparently, Boston, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, San Antonio, Denver, New Orleans and New Jersey have all made calls about Howard.
Analysis: Howard has expressed interest in both signing with a contender and returning to the Wizards. Those are seemingly opposite situations. The 31-year-old averaged career-lows of 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds last year in just 18 games due to injury. Howard believes he's healthy now and ready to play. That remains to be seen. He has some sleeper Fantasy value and can be taken with a late-round pick on Draft Day.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard, still dealing with his ongoing knee issues, will enter free agency this offseason after the worst campaign he's put together as a pro. Not only did he see career-lows in points, assists and steals, but Howard could barely stay healthy once again. He played in just 18 games the entire season, another career-low, because of the knee injury that lingered even after keeping him out until mid-December in the first place. The swingman will be 32-years-old by the time the 2011-12 season begins.
Analysis: Howard was once a feared and versatile scorer in the NBA, until the knee injuries began to pile on in late 2008. Since then, he's played in just 105 games over the last three season's combined. Howard doesn't have the explosion he once enjoyed, and even had a hard time creating his own shot for the Wizards this season. The 8.4 points per game he managed to contribute was the lowest average he's ever finished with since entering the NBA in 2003. Fantasy owners took a stab at him in the later rounds of CBSSports.com leagues entering the year in hopes of a rebound, but we anticipate that average falling heading into 2011-12. Leave Howard for the later rounds of deeper formats, especially if he signs with a team willing to give him another opportunity to contribute.
News: Washington coach Flip Saunders said Tuesday that the six injured players on his roster will not return for the final half-dozen games. One of those players is veteran forward Josh Howard, who hasn't played since March 14. Howard played in just 18 games this season for the Wizards as he continues to deal with tendinitis in his left knee.
Analysis: Howard averaged just 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest in his 18 games for Washington this year. While Howard averages 15.1 points and 5.9 rebounds on his career, he's been on the decline the last four years. His Fantasy value for next year falls on two factors -- how his knee feels and what team he plays for. He signed a one-year deal in August 2010 with the Wizards. With the Wizards rebuilding around John Wall, it is unclear how Howard will factor into that process and if they will bring him back. If he's healthy, Howard would be worth a look in deeper Fantasy leagues in the late rounds on Draft Day.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard was not active for Wednesday's game versus Los Angeles. Howard is not with the team and there is no word if he'll join the team on it's current road trip that goes until Sunday. He's now missed four games with this knee injury.
Analysis: Even if Howard does return to the team, he probably won't be a big factor for the Wizards. He's played in just 18 games this year for Washington, averaging 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest. Fantasy owners should ignore Howard for the rest of the season as he doesn't have much appeal at this time.
News: The Wizards report that forward Josh Howard (knee) did not make the trip with the team to Portland for Tuesday's game. There is no word on when or if Howard will join the Wizards on the road trip, which includes games at the Clippers on Wednesday, at Denver on Friday and at Golden State on Sunday. He has already missed three games with the injury.
Analysis: Keep an eye on when Howard does join the Wizards, but even when he plays he has minimal Fantasy value. He should not be used in most formats for the remainder of the season.
News: The Washington Post reports that the Wizards didn't practice Monday in Portland, but forward Josh Howard is considered day to day after missing the past three games with a knee injury.
Analysis: Howard has minimal Fantasy value when healthy. Keep an eye on his progress, but don't plan on using him in the majority of leagues for Fantasy Week 22 even though the Wizards have four games in this scoring period.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard was held out of Sunday's game against New Jersey, once again sitting out due to his lingering knee injury. For Howard, it was his third consecutive absence.
Analysis: Howard is considered day-to-day moving forward, but there is no real reason to take any sort of a gamble on him in Fantasy. He has averaged just 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds in 18 appearances this season and is merely a shell of his former self these days.
News: The team's official website reports Wizards F Josh Howard is still not ready to return from a recurring knee issue, and was unavailable for Friday's game against the Raptors. He's now missed a pair of games with the issue, though it has plagued him for years.
Analysis: Howard vowed to try and play the rest of the season out after returning from his last injury, but that lasted all but two games. He clearly wants to continue playing, but the injuries continue to mount for the once-prolific scorer. Fantasy owners should not expect much from him once he finally does return to the floor, with his next chance being Sunday against the Nets. When healthy, Howard is just a low-end option fit for deeper formats.
News: As expected, Wizards F Josh Howard did not play in Tuesday's contest against the Bulls because of soreness in his left knee. Howard did not return after halftime of Monday's contest against the Thunder after his surgically repaired knee began acting up on him. He is being considered day to day.
Analysis: Howard just can't seem to stay healthy as the 30-year-old continues to have problems with his surgically repaired knee. He has only appeared in 19 games this season and is averaging just 8.4 points and 4.1 rebounds in the contests. With the playoffs already here in most Fantasy formats, owners may want to leave the injury-prone Howard on the bench, even when he returns to the lineup.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard left Monday's game against the Thunder after suffering a knee injury. Howard did not return after halftime because of a sore left knee. Coach Flip Saunders said he would not play in the team's game at Chicago Tuesday. Howard was held scoreless in 11 minutes prior to leaving with his injury.
Analysis: So much for Howard's goal to not miss anymore games this season as he has already been ruled out of Tuesday's contest. Howard just can't seem to get healthy at this point. The 30-year-old continues to have problems with his surgically repaired knee and has only appeared in 19 games this season. With the playoffs already here in most Fantasy formats, owners may want to leave the injury-prone Howard on the bench, even when he returns to the lineup.
News: After missing the previous three games with a hamstring injury, Wizards forward Josh Howard was back in the lineup for Saturday's contest against the Clippers. Howard, who got the start at small forward, finished with nine points in the 122-101 loss on 4 of 9 shooting from the field. He went 1 of 2 from the charity stripe and also chipped in with five rebounds and three assists while logging 22 minutes.
Analysis: Howard made a personal goal for himself not to miss anymore games this season, but based on his track record he might ending up losing that bet. The 30-year-old's career has been riddled with injuries, which is why is he has only appeared in 17 games this season. Howard is no longer the scoring threat he was in his days back in Dallas and his inability to stay healthy has really diminished his already limited Fantasy value. With the playoffs about to start in the majority of Fantasy leagues, owners may want to leave the veteran on the bench and seek out healthier alternatives.
News:The Washington Post reports Wizards F Josh Howard is expected to play Saturday against the Clippers after missing three straight games with a hamstring injury. He returned to practice Thursday after a week's absence. "I'm feeling okay, it's still a little bit sore," Howard said. "I'm just fighting through it. That's all I can do. Other than that, I'm hopefully going to give it shot Saturday."
Analysis: Howard has made it his personal goal to finish the season without missing more games, but we'll see. "Just as far as minutes, I guess I have to watch them," Howard added. "And like I've said, just show the team, like I've already shown it, that I want to be here. I just got to stay healthy and get out there." His minutes were monitored before wear and tear contributed to the pulled left hamstring. Coach Flip Saunders is happy to have him back , saying his intelligence makes the game easier for the rest of the team. Howard is not the scorer he once was, but he has the ability to contribute as a low-end Fantasy option when healthy. Use him as such in most formats.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard (hamstring) was not able to play in Tuesday's game against the Bucks. He has been on a limited minute count over the last few weeks after he returned from a knee injury, and now the hamstring has caused him to miss three straight games.
Analysis: Howard has been limited all season by injuries, and it's plagued him since he was traded from the Mavericks in 2009. Once a feared scorer, he averages under nine points per game this year -- the lowest since his rookie season -- and just over four rebounds each night. Fantasy owners should not view him as his former self until he scores 18 points night-in, night-out without missing games here-and-there with injury. That won't happen any time soon, so we'll call Howard a low-end option at best when healthy.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard was not available for Sunday's contest at Detroit because of a hamstring injury. Howard has now missed two straight games with the injury. He is being considered day to day.
Analysis: Howard just can't seem to stay healthy. The 30-year-old has only appeared in 16 games this season because of knee and hamstring injuries, which has killed his Fantasy value. Owners should continue monitor his status moving forward, but Howard will now be a huge injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 20 (March 7-13). With the Wizards only playing twice during the upcoming scoring period, owners may want to leave him on the bench for the time being.
News: The Star Tribune reports Wizards forward Josh Howard was not available for Saturday's game against the Timberwolves because of a hamstring injury. He has been on a limited minute count over the last few weeks after he returned from a knee injury.
Analysis: Howard has not been the same since suffering a string of injuries that have slowed him down since 2009. This season he averages under nine points per game -- the lowest since his rookie season -- and just over four rebounds each night. Fantasy owners should not view him as his former self until he scores 18 points night-in, night-out without missing games here-and-there with injury. Howard is just a low-end option this season despite his past success.
News: Wizards forward Josh Howard turned in another pedestrian performance in Monday's 105-77 loss to the Bulls. Howard scored 10 points in the contest on 5 of 10 shooting from the field. He missed his lone attempt from behind the arc and also chipped in with four rebounds and two assists while logging 19 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Howard has now appeared in 15 games this season and has found himself in the starting lineup of late. Still, his numbers haven't exactly been turning many heads. The 30-year-old is averaging 9.6 points and 5.5 rebounds over his last five contests and is shooting just 41 percent from the field over that stretch. Continue to view him as a low-end Fantasy option, whose value lies in deeper leagues at this point of the season.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard provided some much needed points and filled in big minutes for the Wizards on Tuesday. He got the start for the banged up Rashard Lewis and made the most of his playing time. Howard logged 29 minutes for the Wizards in the team's 113-96 loss to the Pacers. Howard shot 7 for 16 from the floor, finishing with 14 points. He added five rebounds and three assists during his court time. Lewis was limited to just 20 minutes as he's dealing with a sore knee.
Analysis: Howard made his season debut on Jan. 5 and has played in just 11 games this year for Washington. Knee injuries have plagued him in his career, but he seems to be healthy for the Wizards right now. He typically comes off the bench, but if Lewis has surgery or misses any time, Howard's value will go up. Entering Tuesday he was averaging 8.2 points, 3.8 boards and is shooting 33.3 percent from the field in about 21 minutes a game. Despite getting a start, Howard remains a low-end forward option in deeper formats at best. He's not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard got the start on Tuesday night against Indiana in place of Rashard Lewis. Lewis has been dealing with a knee injury, which kept him out of the last three games. Howard was dealing with a knee injury and made his season debut on Jan. 5.
Analysis: Howard has played in just 10 games for the Wizards this season, and will typically come off the bench when the team is healthy. He's averaging 8.2 points, 3.8 boards and is shooting 33.3 percent from the field in about 21 minutes a game. Despite getting a start, Howard remains a low-end forward option in deeper formats at best. He's not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard returned to the court for the first time since Jan. 5 on Sunday night against the Cavaliers and had a productive performance. Howard, who had been out with a knee injury, scored 16 points and hauled in five rebounds in the 115-100 win. He went 6 for 11 from the field, including 3 for 6 from downtown, and converted his lone free throw attempt while playing 25 minutes. Howard also contributed with two assists, two steals and a blocked shot in the victory.
Analysis: Howard has only managed to play in nine games this season after undergoing knee surgery a year ago, but he showed on Sunday that he can still be a viable player in Fantasy. Sure the Cavaliers are not one of the better teams in the league but it was still nice to see the 30-year-old go out there and produce. Keep an eye on his progress going forward to make sure he does not suffer a setback. Washington plays game in Week 17 (Feb. 14-20) -- Orlando -- so keep Howard on the bench in deeper leagues until after the All-Star break.
News: Wizards SF Josh Howard, who said he didn't plan on playing Sunday against the Cavaliers, changed his mind and will take part in a game for the first time since Jan. 5.
Analysis: Howard has only managed to play in eight games this season after undergoing knee surgery a year ago, and averaged a career-low 7.9 points in those contests. He will remain only worth worrying about in deeper leagues for the time being.
News: The Washington Post reports that Wizards SF Josh Howard (knee) doesn't plan on playing on Sunday against the Cavaliers.
Analysis: Howard has only managed to play in eight games this season after undergoing knee surgery a year ago, but it looks like he's getting a little closer to a return, as he was initially expected to play on Sunday. He will remain only worth worrying about in deeper leagues initially once he's back on the court.
News: The Washington Post reports Wizards forward Josh Howard (knee) could return to the lineup in Sunday's game against the Cavaliers. He wasn't available for Saturday's game against the Spurs, missing his 19th straight outing with the injury.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Howard's progress, and hopefully he can return Sunday, though the team may hold him out until after the All-Star break. When healthy, Howard has minimal Fantasy value because of the constant injury concern. Howard has averaged just 20.6 minutes per game in eight appearances this season, as he came off of ACL surgery.
News: The Washington Examiner reports the Wizards won't have forward Josh Howard against the Spurs on Saturday because he's still not ready with his knee injury. He has not played since Jan. 5.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Howard's progress, and hopefully he can return soon, most likely after the All-Star break. When healthy, Howard has minimal Fantasy value. Howard has averaged just 20.6 minutes per game in eight appearances this season.
News: The Washington Post reports that Wizards F Josh Howard (knee) is nearing a return. He has not played since Jan. 5, but has been practicing since this past Thursday. He is expected to increase his workload on his left knee this week and could return by Saturday's game against San Antonio or Sunday's game in Cleveland. "That's what we're hoping," said coach Flip Saunders on Sunday.
Analysis: Howard has averaged just 20.6 minutes per game in eight appearances this season. He is far from Fantasy relevant at this point, but could become useful down the line once he can get some games and consistent playing time under him. Just two seasons ago, he averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks and appeared to be a player on the rise before injuries derailed him.
News: Washington SF Josh Howard could not take the floor on Monday night against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks. Howard told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram on Monday that he had a lot of good memories playing for Dallas, but he could not play against them as he's been limited to just eight games this season after having surgery on his left anterior cruciate ligament last March. Howard returned earlier in the year but experienced a setback and is now around two weeks away from returning. "It's unfortunate I haven't been able to spend as much time on the court,'' Howard said. "But I'm almost there and I'm looking forward to doing the same thing there like I did here.''
Analysis: Howard had said he hoped to play against Dallas but that was all it ever was -- a hope. Howard is going to be out until at least the second or third week in February. Howard averaged 7.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and showed flashes of being his all-around former self in his eight games earlier this season. Still, Fantasy owners will want to wait until he's healthy and producing before activating him again. Continue stashing him in deeper formats, if you have the room.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard was listed as 'out' on the team's official media notes for Monday's game in Dallas and could not play against his former team. He has not played since Dec. 31 due to a knee injury, but recent reports out of Washington were that Howard had hoped to return for the Jan. 31 game. For now, consider him day to day.
Analysis: Howard still has a ways to go before we recommend activating him in any Fantasy format, having missed so much time and without the benefit of a consistent role in the Washington rotation. Stash him merely in the hopes that he can return to some semblance of the player he was before injuries derailed his career, but don't expect any immediate payoff. He averaged 18.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in his last healthy season with Dallas.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard, who continues to be bothered by his sore left knee, is making progress in his recuperation and hopes to be able to play next week when the Wizards play at Dallas. Howard has missed 11 straight games with his latest bout of knee soreness that is the result of offseason knee surgery. He is averaging 7.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in eight games this season.
Analysis: Howard has only appeared in eight games this season and continues to experience soreness in his surgically repaired left knee. Owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward to see when he will be able to get back on the court. Howard averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks just two seasons ago and could become a useful Fantasy option later this season if he can stay healthy. However, that seems to be a pretty be "if" at this point. Keep him stashed if you have room on your bench.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard missed his eighth straight game with a sore left knee, but coach Flip Saunders said the injury isn't related to the major surgery Howard had on the same knee last season. "He's got some tendinitis in it that has given him some pain," said Saunders, who hopes to have Howard back for the four-game road trip that begins near the end of next week. "We don't want to rush him into a situation where all of a sudden he's shut down for the year."
Analysis: While Howard obviously doesn't have much Fantasy value at this point, he could become a useful Fantasy option later this season if he can stay healthy and get some games under his belt. He averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks just two seasons ago and appeared to be a player on the rise before injuries derailed him.
News: The Washington Examiner reports that Wizards SF Josh Howard (knee) is still at least a couple of weeks away from returning to action. Howard will be re-examined again in 10 days.
Analysis: While Howard obviously doesn't have much Fantasy value at this point, he could become a useful Fantasy option later this season if he can stay healthy and get some games under his belt. He averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks just two seasons ago and appeared to be a player on the rise before injuries derailed him.
News: Wizards forward Josh Howard will see a specialist Monday about his sore left knee that has kept him out the past five games, but is not expected to play for at least five days after that. Howard had surgery on his knee last season, which began him again in late December. He is averaging 7.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in eight games this season.
Analysis: Howard will most likely be out of commission for the next week or too, so Fantasy owners should leave him stashed, if you have the room on your bench. While Howard obviously doesn't have much Fantasy value at this point, he could become a useful Fantasy option again if he can stay healthy and get some games under his belt. He averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks just two seasons ago and appeared to be a player on the rise before injuries derailed him.
News: The Washington Examiner reports that Wizards coach Flip Saunders said on Monday that F Josh Howard (knee) will miss another week to 10 days. Howard returned to action on Wednesday, but played just 11 minutes before taking a seat because of his knee. He had offseason knee surgery and has played in just eight games this year.
Analysis: Howard has averaged just 20.6 minutes per game in eight appearances this season. He is far from Fantasy relevant at this point, but could become useful down the line once he can get some games and consistent playing time under him. Just two seasons ago, he averaged 18.0 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Mavericks and appeared to be a player on the rise before injuries derailed him.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard has been ruled out for the Wizards next two games, according to the team's official website. He will be re-evaluated on Monday. Howard returned to action on Wednesday, but played just 11 minutes before taking a seat because of his knee. Howard had offseason knee surgery and has played in just eight games this year.
Analysis: Seeing how he's going to be re-evaluated on Monday, Howard won't be worth much in Fantasy leagues until then. The veteran forward can't catch a break this season. He's averaging 7.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and is shooting 33.3 percent from the field in his eight games. Fantasy owners should keep him reserved until the extent of this knee issue is known. Howard is a risky start in the deepest of Fantasy leagues, when healthy, so for now keep him benched heading into Week 12 (Jan. 10-16).
News: Washington SF Josh Howard was able to practice on Tuesday and the Wizards found he was healthy enough to get back in action on Wednesday at Philadelphia. Howard came off the bench against the 76ers as he was returning from a one-game absence with a knee injury but could play just 11 minutes before sitting out the rest of the game as the knee kept bothering him. He should be considered day to day. He finished 0 for 3 with three rebounds and no points in the game.
Analysis: Howard has only played in eight games for the Wizards this season after offseason knee surgery. That knee continues to give him trouble. He's going to play through it, but that also means limited minutes and taking games off, at times. For now, he's too risky to use outside the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News:The Washington Post reports that Wizards F Josh Howard (knee) was not at Monday's practice. He remains day-to-day and is listed as questionable for Wednesday's game in Philadelphia.
Analysis: Howard was played just seven games this season since returning from knee surgery. The forward has struggled to find his shot and is averaging 8.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in his last five outings. With the Wizards sitting at 8-23 this season, Howard's Fantasy value is considered low right now. Keep him stashed on your bench in most Fantasy formats until he is back to full strength.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard missed the Wizards' game against New Orleans on Saturday as his knee injury persisted. Howard sat the first half of Washington's game on Friday after experiencing some soreness in his left knee but played 15 minutes in the second half and scored four points. He is considered day-to-day.
Analysis: Howard was played just seven games this season since returning from knee surgery. The forward has struggled to find his shot and is averaging 8.8 points and 3.2 rebounds in his last five outings. With the Wizards sitting at 8-23 this season, Howard's Fantasy value is considered low right now. Keep him stashed on your bench in most Fantasy formats until he is back to full strength.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard left Friday's game in Indiana early with a knee injury. Howard missed all five of his shots from the field, including three 3-pointers. He would go 4 for 6 from the charity stripe though, finishing with four points. He would grab three rebounds and make three steals in his 15 minutes of action. He's played in just seven games this year as he's coming off knee surgery.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 8.8 points, 1.8 steals and 3.2 boards over his last five games. The Wizards haven't found the best way to use Howard yet, which is why his Fantasy value is low right now. Owners in deeper formats should monitor should monitor him through the weekend.
News: Washington SF Josh Howard had a poor shooting performance and the Wizards still beat the Pacers on Wednesday. Howard shot 2 for 9 and scored just four points over 24 minutes. He missed all three 3-pointers he attempted. Howard grabbed four rebounds and had three steals and two blocks in the performance.
Analysis: Howard had been in double figures in his previous three games but is still averaging just 9.2 points over his last five. That comes with 3.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals. His numbers are still underwhelming right now and Fantasy owners should only be using him in deeper formats.
News: Wizards forward Josh Howard has played in just three games so far this season, but has scored his season high twice. He recorded his second 13-point performance of the year on Wednesday. He added one rebound and one steal in Washington's 87-80 loss to Chicago. He shot 50 percent from the field -- hitting his lone 3-pointer -- and converted 4 of his 5 foul shots.
Analysis: In his three games back, Howard is averaging 10.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. Washington seems to be limiting Howard to just over 20 minutes per game, so his production won't be too high at the moment. The Wizards and Fantasy owners hope he can produce around his career average of 15.3 points per game. Until Howard carves out a niche with the new-look Wizards, he should be stashed in all Fantasy leagues. Once he starts producing owners can consider using Howard as a low-end starter forward.
News: Washington forward Josh Howard made his long-anticipated season debut and scored 13 points off the bench in the Wizards' 95-94 loss to Miami on Saturday night. Howard, who was kept on a strict playing schedule by coach Flip Saunders, recorded 22 minutes in his first game since returning from knee surgery. The eighth-year player connected on 5 of 9 shots from the floor but missed both of his 3-point attempts. Howard chipped in four rebounds, including two on the offensive glass.
Analysis: Howard's first game this season was encouraging for the Wizards, who traded Gilbert Arenas to Orlando for Rashard Lewis earlier in the day. Washington won't rush Howard as he recovers from a torn ligament in his left knee but the Wizards hope his production can reach his career average of 15.3 points per game. Fantasy owners should allow Howard some time to get readjusted into game shape before inserting him in the starting lineup. Keep him stashed on your bench for now and when's he at full strength, he is a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: According to the Washington Examiner, Wizards forward Josh Howard will play between 20-25 minutes on Saturday against the Heat. Howard has missed the entire season so far with a knee injury.
Analysis: With Gilbert Arenas getting traded for Rashard Lewis, one has to wonder how that will affect Howard's role with the team. It might take Howard a few games to get back to 100 percent, but he could emerge as a high-end Fantasy option again. This is a situation to definitely keep your eye on. Howard has played only four games with the Wizards, so he'll have to carve out a niche with the team. He's worth stashing in deeper Fantasy leagues for now, but isn't yet a starting option.
News: Washington SF Josh Howard (knee) is likely to make his debut for the season on Saturday against the Miami Heat, reports the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. There is a still a chance he doesn't play, however.
Analysis: We don't believe that anyone would be surprised if, contrary to this report, Howard sits out longer. It is just the way injuries work in the NBA. Howard might not be quite back up to game speed when he returns, but eventually, he could emerge as a high-end Fantasy option. He has been a good source of points and rebounds in the past, but he has played only four career games with the Wizards, leaving his role up in the air. Given his upside, he's clearly worth stashing in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Wizards SF Josh Howard, who has been recovering from knee surgery all season, could make his season debut Saturday against the Heat if his physical goes well Friday, according to the Washington Examiner. "It could be tomorrow night, it could be Monday," he said. "Next week for sure." Howard has been practicing in full since Sunday.
Analysis: Howard might not be quite back up to game speed when he returns, but eventually, he could emerge as a high-end Fantasy option. He has been a good source of points and rebounds in the past, but he has played only four career games with the Wizards, leaving his role up in the air. Given his upside, he's clearly worth stashing in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Washington Post reports that Wizards F Josh Howard was able to practice on Sunday for the first time in full. He went through the practice without exhaustion, but his season debut is still not expected until some time "later this month." Howard has moved fluidly on his surgically repaired left knee since being cleared for five-on-five drills last month, but said he needs a few more practices under his belt before declaring himself ready. "It's getting close," said Howard. "Staying in practice, not taking any subs, fighting through fatigue, that will be the first thing. Because getting used to that new tendon, it's a big thing. If I can fight through that, I know I'm going to be ready."
Analysis: Howard is said to be targeting a return on either Dec. 20 against Charlotte or Dec. 22 against the Bulls. He has not ruled out returning sooner, but that seems unlikely at this stage. Howard said he has refrained from rushing back too soon, with a setback of tendinitis two months ago serving as a reminder. He has tons of upside, but has been riddled by injuries and off-the-court issues the past couple of seasons, making him a Fantasy disappointment. He remains worthy of stashing given his track record, but is still a bit of a shot in the dark. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Wizards SF Josh Howard, who has yet to play this season after undergoing knee surgery in February, could potentially return next week, according to the Washington Post. "It's about to be that time," he said. The soonest he would return is Tuesday against the Lakers, though he could wait until Dec. 18 against the Heat, Dec. 20 against the Bobcats or Dec. 22 against the Bulls. "One of them home games," he said.
Analysis: Howard used to be an elite scorer and above-average rebounder for the Mavericks, but injuries caused him to take a big step back last year. He has played only four games for the Wizards, so how he'll fit into the rotation is anybody's guess at this point. He said his minutes will be limited at first, though. He's worth stashing in all Fantasy leagues because of his potential, but he might not give you much reason to use him until January.
News: According to the Wizards official website, coach Flip Saunders said on Saturday that F Josh Howard, still recuperating from February knee surgery, is still some weeks away from playing. “He hasn’t done any full court stuff. It’s all been half court,” Saunders said
Analysis: Howard, who has yet to play in a game this season, averaged 12.7 points with 3.6 rebounds a year ago with Dallas and Washington. He has been targeting a return before Christmas but he will have to get in game shape within the next few weeks to reach that goal. Continue to stash the 30-year-old away in larger formats in anticipation of his return. Howard has proven to be a viable Fantasy option in the past but wait and see how he gels with rookie-phenom John Wall before starting him in most leagues.
News: Washington SF Josh Howard (knee) has been cleared to participate in full-contact drills for the Wizards, reports Yahoo! Sports. Howard hopes to return to action by the second week of December.
Analysis: Howard is concerned about setbacks and wants to avoid them at all costs so he can return to action before Christmas. Coming back from major surgery, Howard is going to be worked back into game shape, even when he's able to return to the court. It is still going to be some time until he's completely healthy. Stash him until then.
News: Washington SF Josh Howard still doesn't really have a timetable to return from his knee injury. The Wizards have no new updates on his status or when he's expected to be back with the team. At this point, late November is the best guess.
Analysis: Howard could provide the Wizards with a defensive and all-around presence and he could be a solid Fantasy option in all leagues as well. That said, he needs to get back on the court. Even when he does, he's likely going to need some time to find his rhythm again. Keep stashing him away for now.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard, who underwent successful surgery on his left knee in March after he tore his ACL on Feb. 22 against Chicago, is out until at least November, according to the Washington Post. Howard was injured in his fourth game after joining the Wizards in a trade deadline deal with Dallas.
Analysis: Howard has been making progress in his recovery, but still has not fully participated in practice. He is expected to be ready to play by November, but obviously will be an injury-risk heading into the season. However, he is still worth a mid-to-late round pick because of his upside. Howard averaged 12.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 35 games last season.
News: The Sports Xchange reports the Wizards almost certainly will decline the team option on injured F Josh Howard's $11.84 million contract. He's one of 10 free agents on the roster and the Wizards honestly expect to bring back a reconfigured roster next season. Howard (torn left ACL) is expected to be healthy by the start of the regular season. He underwent successful surgery on his left knee in March after he tore his ACL on Feb. 22 against Chicago.
Analysis: Keep an eye on where Howard will land in 2010-11. If he's healthy, Howard can still be a useful Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: According to the Washington Post, Wizards F Josh Howard underwent successful surgery on his left knee Tuesday. He is expected to need 6-8 months of rehab. Howard tore his ACL on Feb. 22 against Chicago.
Analysis: Howard will be out until at least September and the start of next season is in serious question for him. He has tons of upside, but has been riddled by injuries and off-the-court issues the past couple of seasons, making him a Fantasy disappointment.
News: According to various reports, Wizards coach Flip Saunders told reporters Tuesday afternoon that Josh Howard suffered a torn left ACL. He will miss the remainder of the season. Howard was injured in Monday's contest with Chicago.
Analysis: This is a devastating end to what has been an injury-plagued season for Howard. He was in line for a possible boost in Washington following his trade there last week, but he only got got to play three full games before getting hurt. Now, his status for the start of next season is questionable. In his absence, players like Al Thornton and Mike Miller should get a boost in minutes and touches. Quinton Ross could also see a small boost.
News: Wizards F Josh Howard suffered a sprained left knee and did not return in Monday's contest with Chicago according to the official team Web site. He finished with seven points in eight minutes.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to keep track of Howard's status for the rest of the week. Howard had been seeing a boost in his Fantasy production since joining the Wizards by averaging 17 points in his last three contests. He was playing like a low-end No. 2 forward, but should be kept reserved in daily formats until news comes about on his status.
News: Washington F Josh Howard scored 17 points in a loss to Toronto on Saturday. Howard shot 5 of 17 from the field while adding seven rebounds and four assists in 33 minutes. He has reached double figures in seven consecutive games.
Analysis: Since being traded to the Wizards, Howard is averaging 17 points per game in three contests. The Wizards have a lack of scoring options and Howard could be depended upon to provide some of that scoring. If he continues playing at his current pace, Howard can make a very solid No. 3 Fantasy forward or low-end No. 2 option.
News: Wizards SF Josh Howard made the most of his minutes Friday against the Nuggets, scoring 20 points in just 23 minutes. He shot 8 of 11 from the field, 1 of 3 from downtown. He snatched four rebounds.
Analysis: Maybe a change of scenery was what Howard needed after disappointing for most of the season in Dallas. In two games so far with the Wizards he's averaging 18 points, a significant upgrade from the 12.5 points a game he was good for with the Mavericks. It's still to early to know which Josh Howard will show up the rest of the year, but for now he's borderline No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Wizards SF Josh Howard will start at shooting guard on Friday against the Nuggets, according to the Washington Post. He will replace Nick Young in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Howard was averaging 12.5 points and 26.7 minutes in 31 games for the Mavs, and he was pretty much on his averages in his Washington debut on Wednesday against the Timberwolves. Howard has been off the beaten path in 2009-10 and a large part has to do with his surgically-repaired ankle. We know what kind of Fantasy ability Howard brings to the table. But until his numbers start to improve, Howard is more of a low-end Fantasy start.
News: SF Josh Howard made his Wizards debut on Wednesday against the Timberwolves. Howard, who was acquired from Dallas in a Saturday trade, did not start but entered the game early in the first quarter. He finished with 14 points as he shot 5 of 14 from the field. Howard grabbed one rebound and had three steals in 26 minutes.
Analysis: Howard was averaging 12.5 points and 26.7 minutes in 31 games for the Mavs, so he was pretty much on his average in his Washington debut. It will be interesting to see how long Howard comes off the bench. Washington is tinkering with its new lineup after making a few trades. Howard has been off the beaten path in 2009-10 and a large part has to do with his surgically-repaired ankle. We know what kind of Fantasy ability Howard brings to the table. But until his numbers start to improve, Howard is more of a low-end Fantasy start.
News: According to the official NBA Web site, the Mavericks have reached an agreement to send Josh Howard, Drew Gooden, James Singleton, and Quinton Ross to Washington for swingman Caron Butler, center Brendan Haywood and guard DeShawn Stevenson.
Analysis: With Washington giving up Butler and Haywood, the Wizards will have to depend on Howard to become a legitimate scoring threat. Howard is averaging just 12.5 points per game this season, but could see a larger role in Washington that will boost his Fantasy appeal. Fantasy owners will have to wait and see how Washington plans to use him, but if he sees plenty of minutes, he might propel himself to a No.2 Fantasy forward.
News: According to the Dallas Morning News, the Mavericks have reached a tentative agreement to send Josh Howard, Drew Gooden and two other players to Washington for swingman Caron Butler, center Brendan Haywood and guard DeShawn Stevenson.
Analysis: With Washington giving up Butler and Haywood, the Wizards will have to depend on Howard to become a legitimate scoring threat. Howard is averaging just 12.5 points per game this season, but could see a larger role in Washington that will boost his Fantasy appeal. Fantasy owners will have to wait and see how Washington plans to use him, but if he sees plenty of minutes, he might propel himself to a No.2 Fantasy forward.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard scored 25 points as Dallas defeated the Warriors 127-117 on Monday. Howard played 35 minutes and shot 7 of 12 from the field while adding three rebounds. It was the fourth time in his last five games that Howard has reached double figures.
Analysis: Howard has scored in double figures in three straight games and has showed continued improvement after having a two point performance against Utah. Unfortunately, the inconsistency hurts Howard and he does not offer much in other statistical categories making him only a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard played well on Wednesday in a win over Golden State. Howard scored 19 points on 9 for 15 shooting with a three over 31 minutes. He added two dimes and two boards.
Analysis: Howard has scored in dobule figures three times in his last five but also combined for nine points in the other two. He's not yet consistent for Dallas and this season continues to be a huge disappointment. Keep him reserved in most Fantasy leagues until he really gets going again.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard scored 17 points in Saturday's loss to Portland. He shot 6 of 14 from the field in 26 minutes, adding five rebounds and one steal.
Analysis: While not scoring at a high clip, Howard is at least consistent, with 10 or more points in 11 of his last 16 games. However he doesn't give you much in the way of rebounds or assists, leaving him at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard scored 17 points in Saturday's loss to Portland. He shot 6 of 14 from the field in 26 minutes, adding five rebounds and one steal.
Analysis: While not scoring at a high clip, Howard is at least consistent, with 10 or more points in 11 of his last 16 games. However he doesn't give you much in the way of rebounds or assists, leaving him at best a No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had just seven points with two assists in 15 minutes Sunday against the Knicks. He has been held under 10 points in three of his last four games.
Analysis: Howard played only 15 minutes in a 127-78 blowout win, but he has been getting around 25-30 minutes on most nights. He never seems to be 100 percent healthy and is a very frustrating Fantasy option because of his established upside but overall inconsistency this season.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard scored 11 points against the 76ers on Friday after missing the Mavericks' last game due to a stomach illness. Howard did not start but played 26 minutes off the bench, adding one rebound, one assist and one steal. He shot 5 of 13 from the field, including 1 of 3 on 3-pointers.
Analysis: Howard's scoring average has dipped a bit in January thanks to a shooting percentage of .330 in nine games this month. But with season averages of 12.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists a game he remains a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Dallas Mavericks guard Josh Howard will sit against the Washington Wizards because of a stomach illness. Jason Terry started in Howard's spot on Wednesday night. Howard has missed 21 of Dallas' 42 games this season. He's spent much of the season rehabilitating his surgically repaired left ankle.
Analysis: Howard scored just three points on 1 for 5 shooting in his last game at Boston on Monday but it doesn't appear that this illness is the reason for his struggle. He's managed just 11 points total in his last two games as he's shot 4 for 17 from the field and is shooting even worse than that -- 6 for 31 for 19 percent -- over his last three contests. Because of his awful shooting, low scoring and current injury issues, we have to suggest keeping him inactive across the board until he can change his fortunes.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard missed Wednesday's morning shootaround with an illness, reports the Dallas Morning News. He has been downgraded to doubtful to play in the game.
Analysis: Howard scored just three points on 1 for 5 shooting in his last game at Boston on Monday but it doesn't appear that this illness is the reason for his struggle. He's managed just 11 points total in his last two games as he's shot 4 for 17 from the field and is shooting even worse than that -- 6 for 31 for 19 percent -- over his last three contests. Because of his awful shooting, low scoring and current injury issues, we have to suggest keeping him inactive across the board until he can change his fortunes.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, who missed Saturday's game with thigh contusion, returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Lakers. He had 18 points, five rebounds and three assists in 36 minutes. His 18 points were his most since he had 20 way back on Dec. 8.
Analysis: Howard got off to a late start because of offseason ankle surgery, but he has battled other injuries as well. His production has suffered as a result. He's averaging just 13.1 points after averaging at least 18 each of the last three seasons. He's still a must-own in Fantasy because of his upside, but he's just a matchups type until he starts playing up to his level.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard went through shootaround Wednesday and is expected to play against the Lakers. Howard missed Saturday's game against Utah with a thigh contusion.
Analysis: Howard should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option when healthy. Hopefully he can play at a high level and not suffer any setbacks, and keep an eye on his production in his return from injury.
News: Dallas F Josh Howard, who sustained a left thigh contusion Friday at San Antonio, was inactive for Saturday's game vs Utah.
Analysis: Howard has been averaging just over 12.5 points per game in his previous five games. His scoring has not been overly productive, but he has the ability to put up points and should be a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on Howard's status for Fantasy week 12 (Jan.11-17).
News: Dallas F Josh Howard, who sustained a left thigh contusion Friday at San Antonio, is listed as inactive for Saturday's game vs Utah.
Analysis: Howard has been averaging just over 12.5 points per game in his previous five games. His scoring has not been overly productive, but he has the ability to put up points and should be a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard is averaging 13.4 points per game over his last five contests and 13.3 points per game on the season for the Mavericks after his first 12 games of this season. Howard continues to come off the bench for the Mavs and his minutes are rising. He managed 17 points his last time out over 30 minutes and shot 5 of 15 from the field in a win at Denver.
Analysis: Howard got to the line 10 times in that game and that is the best news to Fantasy owners. He needs to continue to get more aggressive. He added nine rebounds against the Nuggets, another sign that he's getting more comfortable on the court. The scoring will come as evidenced by his career scoring average of 15.5 points per game. It is just a matter of time. He's safe to keep active as a No. 3 Fantasy option for now.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard returned from an absence to rest his ankle injury on Monday night against the Hornets. He came off the bench for 29 minutes and scored 14 points on 5 of 10 shooting with a three. Howard added eight rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Howard should continue to be healthy for this scoring week but just realize he may sit every now and again to rest that ankle. He showed his Fantasy value on Monday with his nice stat line in limited minutes. He's safe to keep active as a No. 3 Fantasy option for now.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard, who missed Saturday night's game against the Charlotte Bobcats to rest his injured ankle, is listed as probable for Monday's game against New Orleans. Howard returned last Tuesday after missing 13 games with the injury and also played Friday at Miami, but he was held out against Charlotte as part of the plan to keep him from playing in back-to-back games.
Analysis: It sounds like Howard will return against the Hornets, and the Mavericks don't have back-to-back games during this scoring period. They play four games against New Orleans on Monday, at Oklahoma City on Wednesday, against Houston on Friday and against Cleveland on Sunday. It appears like Howard will play in each game, so it's safe to keep him active as a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard was inactive for Saturday night's game against the Charlotte Bobcats. Coach Rick Carlisle rested Howard, who returned Tuesday night after missing 13 games to rehabilitate his surgically repaired left ankle, as a precaution after Dallas played at Miami on Friday night. "We feel it's the right thing to do," Carlisle said. "We don't have another back-to-back until late in the month. The hope is that by that time he'll be able to do back-to-backs. But we'll wait and see."
Analysis: Howard missed the first five games of the season recovering from the surgery, then lasted 2 1/2 games before being sidelined again. He is averaging 12.6 points and 3.6 rebounds this season. He will likely be active on Monday against New Orleans and the team does not play back-to-back games in Fantasy Week 8 (Dec. 14-20). He has must-start potential but won't likely be 100 percent yet in the upcoming scoring period. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy option for now.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was able to play through an ankle injury on Friday against Miami. He scored just five points off the bench in 23 minutes, hitting two of his eight shots. He added four assists and a rebound. Howard might not play on Saturday against Charlotte according to a Dallas Morning News report on Friday that came out before the game.
Analysis: Howard was initially thought to potentially be out through late December with the ankle injury. He will likely need to be benched in daily formats on Saturday. He will probably be a safe play for Week 8 (Dec. 14-20) but won't likely be playing at 100 percent. when healthy and active, Howard has the potential to be a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard, who returned to action Tuesday after missing significant time due to an ankle injury, might play only one of the team's back-to-back games Friday in Miami and Saturday at home against Charlotte. The report added that he would most likely play Friday night, meaning he'd miss Saturday's game.
Analysis: Howard's Fantasy owners should really be happy to see him back at all as it was expected he'd be out possibly through late December. He should play around 25 minutes per game until he gets back into playing shape, but that was enough to crack the 20-point mark in his first game back against Phoenix. It does sound like he'll be a safe play for the upcoming scoring period, but he may not be 100 percent for another week or two.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard carefully peeled the wrapper off a bandage, then gently applied it to his surgically repaired left ankle. He rubbed on some cream, pulled up a sock and then, before putting on his shoe, slipped on a brace, too. "It's going to be sore, guys, it's going to be sore the rest of the year," he said. At least this time the soreness came with a smile. Howard was back in action after missing 13 games and was back to his old tricks on both ends of the court, scoring 20 points and flying around for six rebounds and three steals. "I'm surprised he played so well for his first game back," Phoenix's Amar'e Stoudemire said. "He took his time, got healthy and it showed."
Analysis: The ankle bothered Howard all last season no matter how much therapy he did, so he had it cleaned up over the summer. He missed the first five games of the season recovering, then lasted just 2 1/2 before having to be shut down again. Following a nearly monthlong layoff, he didn't start Tuesday night and coach Rick Carlisle wasn't sure how long he'd use Howard or how good he would be. Turns out he was good as ever. Carlisle said Howard may miss one of the back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday nights, but he'll be back to full capacity before you know it. When at his best, he's good for about 19 points and more rebounds than you'd expect from a guard-eligible player, making him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard could very well return for Tuesday's game against the Phoenix Suns. There are differing reports on the matter. An ESPN report claims that coach Rick Carlisle conformed to ESPNDallas.com that Howard would make his return to the lineup. The team's media notes, however, label Howard as "out" for the game.
Analysis: Because of the differing reports, we can't assume anything to be true about this situation. This is great news because Howard was originally expected to be out until late December. Keep him on your bench for now but if he's able to play against the Suns, and plays well, he'll be worth activating in all formats. He has high-end Fantasy appeal, when healthy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard (ankle) was asked at his annual charity bowling event Thursday how his rehab was going and he said it is going well. "It's getting better, and I'm going to try to be out there real soon," he said.
Analysis: There isn't too much information to read into there, more like an empty answer from Howard. He said he probably rushed back too fast from off-season surgery but added "at the time, it felt like it was OK." ESPNDallas.com has reported that he will not return until late December.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, continuing to recover from surgery on his left ankle, missed another game Monday at Milwaukee. According to ESPNDallas.com, he won't return until late December.
Analysis: Howard missed all the preseason and the first five games of the regular season after having arthroscopic surgery on his ankle and wrist in May. He averaged 18 points and 5.1 rebounds last season and is worth your patience, so you have no choice but to stash him for the time being.
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard is out indefinitely to continue his recovery from surgery on his left ankle. Coach Rick Carlisle said Friday that Howard needs more time to recover. He did not put a timetable on Howard's return. Howard will still do some work in practice in addition to his rehabilitation while he tries to regain the strength and mobility in the ankle. He remained out on Sunday against the Pistons.
Analysis: Howard missed all the preseason and the first five games of the regular season after having arthroscopic surgery on his ankle and wrist in May. He returned to the starting lineup on Saturday against Toronto and played in the past three games. Howard averaged 18 points and 5.1 rebounds last season and is worth your patience, but he has to be reserved in all leagues for Fantasy Week 4 (Nov. 16-22).
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard is out indefinitely to continue his recovery from surgery on his left ankle. Coach Rick Carlisle said Friday that Howard needs more time to recover. He did not put a timetable on Howard's return. Howard will still do some work in practice in addition to his rehabilitation while he tries to regain the strength and mobility in the ankle.
Analysis: Howard missed all the preseason and the first five games of the regular season after having arthroscopic surgery on his ankle and wrist in May. He returned to the starting lineup on Saturday against Toronto and played in the past three games. Howard averaged 18 points and 5.1 rebounds last season and is worth your patience, but he has to be reserved in all leagues for the time being.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard left Wednesday's game in the third quarter with a noticeable limp. It was his third game back after off-season ankle surgery. "He was limping, so we took him out," coach Rick Carlisle said. "It's the first back-to-back [games for Howard]. We'll evaluate it and treat it accordingly. He's had some soreness. It's no secret. There's going to be times when there's soreness, and we have to get him out of the game."
Analysis: Asked when he knew he was done for the night, Howard said: "When he took me out, pretty much." Howard called the situation a slow process to get back to complete health and Fantasy owners should look for him to be limited when the Mavericks play back-to-back sets. They don't play any in Week 4, but have two back-to-back sets in Week 5. Monitor Howard's progress and consider him questionable for Friday at Minnesota.
News:Josh Howard scored 16 in his season debut in the Mavericks' 129-101 victory over the Raptors on Saturday night. Howard was in the starting lineup after missing all of the preseason and the first five games while recovering from surgery on his left ankle and left wrist in May.
Analysis: Howard got off to a fast start, contributing seven points and two rebounds while playing the entire first quarter as Dallas carried a 26-25 lead into the second quarter. He got only 24 minutes in his first game of the year, but that number should climb significantly as he continues to get better. Now that Howard is back, he should be considered a must-start Fantasy option for Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 9-15).
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard still isn't ready to return to action while recovering from offseason ankle surgery on Wednesday against the Hornets. He might still be a few games away.
Analysis: Howard is a good scorer and rebounder when healthy, but he looks like he's still a couple games from returning. Keep him stashed, though. He could potentially return as soon as Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 9-15).
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard missed his fourth straight game to open the season while recovering from offseason ankle surgery Tuesday against the Jazz. However, he's working overtime on agility, strength and conditioning drills, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Howard is a good scorer and rebounder when healthy, but he looks like he's still a couple games from returning. Keep him stashed, though. He could potentially return as soon as Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 9-15).
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (ankle, wrist) missed his third straight game to start the season Saturday at the Clippers. The team has yet to set a date for his return.
Analysis: Howard was expected to return within the first two weeks of the season, meaning that he could play at some point in Week 2. However, Fantasy owners should reserve him as it does not seem likely he will play Tuesday against Utah. He should be ready for Week 3, barring a setback.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard, who missed the season opener as expected Tuesday against the Wizards, should return within two weeks, according to Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. Howard underwent reconstructive surgery on his ankle this offseason and also has a sore wrist.
Analysis: We already figured Howard would miss Fantasy Week 1, but according to this report, you'll want to sit him for Fantasy Week 2 (Nov. 2-8) as well. When healthy, he's a high-end Fantasy option, as evidenced by his 18.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.6 apg last season, but he might need some time to get up to speed even when he does return. Keep him stashed.
News: ESPNDallas.com reports that the Mavericks do not know when Josh Howard (ankle, wrist) will be ready for game action. Howard has yet to complete a full practice and will not dress for Tuesday's opener against the Washington Wizards. "It could be awhile," coach Rick Carlisle said. "It could be weeks. I don't know. I don't know. We'll find a way without him, but we know we're better with him. When he comes back, we'll have to be ready to integrate him very quickly." It is unclear who the Mavericks will start, but Jason Terry should see more minutes in Howard's absence.
Analysis: Howard is already a headache for Fantasy owners, but now at least you know not to start him in Week 1 (Oct. 27-Nov. 1). The report added that there is still some soreness in the wrist, but it is the ankle is preventing Howard from playing. He underwent reconstructive surgery on the ankle this offseason. Fantasy owners should be patient with Howard as his production when healthy can be outstanding (18.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.6 apg last season). Terry continues to be a terrific start with this news.
News: The Mavericks went without projected starters Josh Howard and Shawn Marion against the Pistons on Thursday. Howard is recovering from offseason surgery on his left ankle while Marion is sidelined with a recurring right calf strain. Howard has started scrimmaging with the goal of playing in at least one of the final preseason games. Marion is day-to-day. Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said planning for the regular season without Howard and Marion is a challenge. "They're going to have to catch up," he said. "Those guys have got to get some reps. But we'll figure it out."
Analysis: Barring a setback, Howard should be ready for the start of the regular season. He remains an above-average rebounder for a guard-eligible player and should score between 18-20 points per game. He's normally a No. 2 Fantasy guard or forward, but this injury risk might allow you to get him as a No. 3.
News: Mavericks swingman Josh Howard has yet to play in the preseason as he completes his recovery from offseason left ankle surgery. Howard continues to do some running, and should begin participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages soon, with the goal of playing in one of Dallas' final preseason games.
Analysis: The fact that it is not certain whether or not Howard will play in the preseason means that he is questionable for the start of the regular season. However, if there are no setbacks, he should be available for the first scoring period in weekly leagues. Howard finished the 2008-2009 season averaging 18 points per game, 5.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists. He has high-end potential when healthy.
News: Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle isn't sure when swingman Josh Howard will be able to play after offseason surgery on his left ankle. Asked Friday whether Howard could miss the start of the regular season, Carlisle replied: "Stay tuned." "Giving a timetable was probably a mistake. We have to play this by ear," Carlisle said. "I'll probably announce it the day he is going to play - whether that is in two weeks or a month or a month and a half." Dallas opens the regular season Oct. 27.
Analysis: Howard is not expected to have to miss any regular season time, but is a player whose health should be monitored leading up to the season. Howard finished the 2008-2009 season averaging 18 points per game, 5.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists. He has high-end potential when healthy.
News: Mavericks swingman Josh Howard will miss the early preseason games as he recovers from offseason surgery on his left ankle. Howard has been doing some light running, but is being held out of 5-on-5 scrimmages.
Analysis: Coach Rick Carlisle said Howard is "progressing" and "hopefully he can play the latter part of the exhibition schedule." He is not expected to have to miss any regular season time, but is a player whose health should be monitored leading up to the season. Howard finished the 2008-2009 season averaging 18 points per game, 5.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists. He has high-end potential when healthy.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard underwent successful arthroscopic surgery to his left wrist and left ankle in New York. Howard, referring to the ankle, said last week that doctors were "just going in there to clean out all the junk." The team expects Howard back in Dallas this weekend to begin rehabilitation. His surgery was Thursday.
Analysis: Howard missed 22 games this season because of the ankle but returned in late March and helped the Mavericks to a first-round playoff win against San Antonio. The Mavs were eliminated in five games by Denver. He averaged 15.8 points during the playoffs. He is a high-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard will be in New York next week for a second opinion on his left ankle. Howard missed 22 games this season because of the ankle. He returned in late March and played through pain, but was a big part of Dallas' run to the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference and first-round playoff win against San Antonio. Howard has been told he needs arthroscopic surgery "to clean out all the junk." Just to make sure, he's getting examined by another foot and ankle specialist. The Mavs' season ended Wednesday night, when they were eliminated by Denver in five games.
Analysis: Howard finished the 2008-2009 season averaging 18 points per game, 5.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Hopefully he'll be fully recovered from the surgery before the start of training camp as he is a dominant Fantasy force when healthy.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard (ankle) was able to play in Game 3 against the Denver Nuggets but couldn't avoid having his team go down 0-3 in the series. Howard played 29 minutes and scored 14 points on 5-of-15 shooting. He added seven rebounds, a steal and a blocked shot.
Analysis: Howard is a tough player and will play anytime he can walk as the Mavs try to advance in the playoffs. They are seemingly on their last leg, however, so you can bet he'll play in Game 4. Howard plans to have surgery on his ankle after the season and that could affect the start of next year, so stay tuned for that. When healthy, Howard is a standout Fantasy option.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard was sidelined after just six scoreless minutes in Game 2 against Denver because of a sprained right ankle. The Mavericks' energizer went to the bench late in the first quarter after he appeared to land awkwardly on his right foot while trying to block Carmelo Anthony's layup. Howard has been hampered all season by a balky left ankle and sprained his right one in the first half of the opener Sunday night at Denver. Howard missed 30 games in the regular season but his return sparked Dallas down the stretch and he played a key role in the Mavericks' elimination of San Antonio in the first round. He will be listed as questionable for Game 3 on Saturday against Denver. "It's been sore," Howard said. "I tried to get through it tonight, but my ankle didn't respond the way I wanted it to. I'm going to continue icing and treatment, and the plan is that I will be ready on Saturday."
Analysis: Howard plans to have surgery on his ankle after the season. Hopefully he can return for the rest of the playoffs, but this is something worth keeping an eye on to make sure he is 100 percent. When healthy, Howard is a standout Fantasy option.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard left Tuesday's Game 2 in the first quarter after aggravating his right ankle injury. The Dallas Morning News is reporting that he's not going to return in the game. Howard was 0-for-3 and did not score before leaving the game.
Analysis: Howard was already questionable for the game after turning the ankle in Game 1 of the series. The Mavericks need him desperately, but he may miss some more time now that he's re-aggravated the injury. Hopefully this will end when the season does and he can come back next year at 100 percent but the Mavs are playing with fire.
News: With two tender ankles, Josh Howard may now be leaning more on his jumper than his jukes. Less pain that way. The Mavericks forward who was already hampered by a balky left ankle turned his right one in the first half of a 109-95 loss to the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 on Sunday. "This is not fun," Howard said. "Both ankles hurt? I've never had this before." Sit out Game 2 on Tuesday night? No way. Not an option. "I'm going to have to manage" the pain, said Howard, who missed two 11-game stretches this season with a bothersome left ankle and 30 games overall. "My team's depending on me." Still, he's left wondering how he's going to push off and penetrate on two bad wheels. "It's going to hurt," said Howard, who sat out practice Monday to give his ankles more time to heal. "I'm going to have to play through it to get us where we want to go."
Analysis: Howard missed most of the season series against the Nuggets, which Denver swept 4-0, and the Mavericks considered Howard the key to turning around those fortunes in the playoffs. But now one of Dallas' few slashers can't cut to the rim, causing some consternation for Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. "I'm always concerned. It's been a problem since the third week of the season," Carlisle said of his energizer's health. "We always hold our breath, cross our fingers and pray that Mother Nature is nice to us. It's a tough situation for him, because I know he desperately wants to play and play well." Howard can't recall the details of how he hurt his right ankle Sunday. All he knows was he came off a screen and planted wrong, falling to the floor in pain. So, which one hurts worse? "I don't really think about that," said Howard, who averaged 18 points and 5.1 rebounds in the regular season. "I go out there and get jump shots up. I try to get the same rhythm." Howard will play through pain. Hopefully this will end when the season does and he can come back next year at 100 percent.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard, who missed two 11-game stretches this season with a bum left ankle and probably needs surgery, turned his right ankle in the second quarter of Game 1 against the Nuggets on Sunday when he got tangled up with Chauncey Billups. He went to the locker room but returned to action before halftime. Howard finished with 15 points in 33 minutes. "I can't avoid injuries," Howard said. "Right now I could get hurt walking off a plane."
Analysis: You never want to have two bum ankles but in this case, Howard is glad he hurt the right one instead of the left one. Another injury to the left one could have meant missing the rest of the playoffs. Instead, the must-start option in Fantasy play will continue putting up big minutes in the playoffs during the Mavericks' run. Howard will likely need surgery this offseason and hopefully that won't linger into next year.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard, who missed Monday's practice with an ailing ankle, was able to give it a go in Game 5 against the Spurs and helped the Mavericks win the series, 4-1. Howard scored 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting and added eight rebounds and three steals in 37 minutes.
Analysis: Howard and the Mavericks advance to the second round of the Western Conference playoffs where they await either Denver or New Orleans. Howard will have some time to rest the ankle before taking the court again. Still, this ankle issue will likely force Howard to have offseason surgery, and hopefully it doesn't linger into the season.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard didn't practice Monday because of a bad ankle. Howard had ankle problems during the season, and he will be listed as questionable for Game 5 at San Antonio on Tuesday.
Analysis: Howard missing practice was probably just to rest and nothing else. Don't worry about him missing the playoff game. Still, this ankle issue will likely force Howard to have offseason surgery, and hopefully it doesn't linger into the season.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was able to play in the season finale against the Rockets on Wednesday. Howard skipped Monday's game against the Timberwolves to rest his chronic left ankle injury but played in the finale as a final tuneup for the playoffs. Howard scored 15 points in 34 minutes. He shot poorly at 4-of-13 and added three rebounds, two blocks and a steal.
Analysis: Howard averaged 18 points per game this season for Dallas but played in only 51 contests. He was a must-start as a Rotisserie stud when healthy, however. Howard should be fine to start in the first round of the NBA playoffs.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard, who rested his left ankle on the second night of back-to-back games Monday against Minnesota, is expected to be available Wednesday against Houston and for all playoff games, since there are no back-to-back situations in the postseason, reports the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Howard, who is averaging 18.1 points and 5.1 assists this season, should be active in daily leagues against the Rockets. He should also do well in the playoffs and remains a quality Fantasy option.
News: Mavericks swingman Josh Howard sat out Monday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves to rest his chronic left ankle injury. This was the 24th game he's missed this season because of the problem, which likely will require offseason surgery. He'd played six of the previous seven games, with Dallas going 5-1 with him in the lineup; the lone loss was Sunday in New Orleans.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 18.1 points and 5.1 assists this season. He's normally a must-start but with the season winding down you can't trust him to be healthy and in the lineup so keep him benched.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports there is a possibility that Mavericks forward Josh Howard could sit out Monday night's game against the Timberwolves. Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged as much last week when asked whether he would consider resting Howard for the second game of back-to-back sets. Howard's left ankle will be monitored closely on a day-to-day basis until the end of the season, when he'll get surgery.
Analysis: Howard played 34 minutes in Sunday's game at New Orleans, his most since returning from an 11-game absence. That would seem to increase the likelihood of him getting the night off. Howard had 15 points, four rebounds and one assist against the Hornets. The safe option when setting your lineup is to keep Howard reserved for the final scoring period.
News:Josh Howard, who missed 12 of the previous 15 games with a sore left ankle for Dallas, sustained a cut near his left eye and a bloody nose when he was popped in the face attempting a shot with four minutes left in the first quarter Wednesday against the Jazz. Howard didn't return until four minutes into the second quarter. He had to leave again early in the second half, but returned again. Howard finished with 13 points and a career-high seven steals. He also had eight rebounds while going just 3-of-11 from the field.
Analysis: The good news is that Howard has returned from his ankle injury and has managed to stave off a few facial wounds in the process. The Mavs really needed Howard Wednesday as they were able to clinch a playoff berth. Howard could get some time to rest in the final games since Dallas is headed to the playoffs, but for now, he is active and a viable Fantasy forward.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Dallas forward Josh Howard is officially a game-time decision Wednesday night against Utah, but he is expected to play despite his bad ankle.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Howard in your active lineup. Consider him a solid starting Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard is showing that he can tolerate the pain in his left ankle, at least when he gets the proper rest in between games. Dallas has three games this scoring period against Utah at home on Wednesday, New Orleans at home on Friday and at New Orleans on Sunday. With no back-to-back games, Howard should be OK.
Analysis: This is good news for Howard owners, who have dealt with a difficult season where Howard missed time with ankle and wrist injuries. Hopefully he can stay active for the rest of the season, and he should remain a quality Fantasy option.
News: Dallas Sf Josh Howard was able to return to the team's lineup on Sunday against the Suns and scored 24 points on 9-of-17 shooting. He had missed Friday's game at Memphis with lingering wrist and ankle injuries.
Analysis: The injuries have bothered Howard off and on this season, but the Mavericks are going to need him from here on out as they make their push for the playoffs. He is a high-end option when healthy, but has been frequently injured this year. Hopefully this will be the last time he misses time with these injuries this season.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was unable to play in Friday's game against the Grizzlies due to lingering ankle and wrist injuries. He was considered a game-time decision earlier in the day. He is now questionable for Sunday's game against the Suns.
Analysis: These wrist and ankle injuries have nagged Howard throughout the season and are springing up once again down the stretch. He will likely be an injury risk for the rest of the year as he continues to keep coming off and going back on the injured list. He is a high-end option when healthy, but has been frequently injured and will be an injury risk if he is unable to play on Sunday.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard might not play Friday night against Memphis. Howard's ankle and wrist bothered him after the win over Miami on Wednesday. He wasn't on the court shooting with the rest of the team when practice was opened to the media Friday. When asked how Howard responded to extended minutes against the Heat, coach Rick Carlisle said, "game-time decision."
Analysis: This could be an ongoing situation with Howard, who has been limited with wrist and ankle problems all season. For now, be safe in daily leagues and keep Howard reserved. Hopefully this isn't a setback and you can still use Howard in the next scoring period, but Howard will remain an injury risk for the rest of this year.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had 20 points with eight rebounds in his second game back from an ankle injury Wednesday against Miami. He has averaged 17.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in the two games since his return, but the Dallas Morning News reported that he hurt his left wrist when he took a charge late in the game.
Analysis: Howard cannot buy a break this season. However, this latest injury should be more of a nuisance than anything that will keep him out for any amount of time. He can play like a high-end Fantasy forward, when healthy, but Fantasy owners will have to adjust expectations a bit.
News:Josh Howard is returning to the Dallas Mavericks just in time for the playoff push. The former All-Star was in the starting lineup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night after an 11-game absence because of a sore left ankle. His return is a huge boost for a team that is trying to distance itself from Phoenix in the Western Conference playoff race. The Mavericks started the day with a 3 1/2-game lead over the Suns for the eighth and final playoff spot. Howard scored 14 points with six boards in 22 minutes at Minnesota.
Analysis: Missing 11 games can make anyone lose their offensive rhythm so you should probably let Howard play out the rest of this week before deciding to start him for Week 24 (April 6-12). He can play like a high-end Fantasy forward, when healthy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard was bouncing around at shootaround Tuesday morning with tons of energy, and it appears he will return Tuesday night against Minnesota. He has missed 10 games with an ankle injury.
Analysis: It sounds like Howard will return against Minnesota. The safe option in daily leagues is to keep him reserved and give him at least one game to shake off the rust following the long layoff. When healthy, Howard is a solid Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard missed his 11th straight game with a sore left ankle Sunday in Cleveland. Dallas' third-leading scorer hasn't played since March 5.
Analysis: Howard has had ankle issues for most of the season and they aren't going away as most head-to-head leagues are in the thick of the playoffs right now. He is once again an injury risk for Week 23 and likely should not be trusted in any format right now. He offers no guarantee of playing at all in the upcoming week. He had a cortisone shot this week and that could allow him to return to action at some point in Week 23, but Fantasy owners should expect him to return at much less than 100 percent.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was unable to play in Friday's game against the Nuggets as he continues to deal with an ankle injury. Howard remains questionable for Sunday's game at Cleveland.
Analysis: Howard has had ankle issues for most of the season and they aren't going away as most head-to-head leagues are in the thick of the playoffs right now. If he can't play on Sunday, he'll be considered an injury risk for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was unable to play in Wednesday's game against the Warriors as he continues to deal with an ankle injury. Howard had been listed doubtful for the game earlier in the day. He remains questionable for Friday's game against Denver.
Analysis: Howard's ankle issues have been a lingering problem for much of the season. He is not a player that can be activated until he is coming back to the Dallas lineup for sure. He is a No. 2 Fantasy forward when healthy and active.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard remains doubtful for Wednesday's game against Golden State. He's expected to go through Thursday's practice and see how his left ankle responds.
Analysis: Keep Howard reserved in all leagues Wednesday and hope he can return soon. When healthy, Howard is a No. 2 Fantasy option, but this ankle injury has been a pain for Fantasy owners all season.
News: As expected, Josh Howard missed his eighth straight game Saturday in Indiana. He was reportedly shut down for the week in the hopes that a cortisone injection could allow him to return to practice at some point in the upcoming week, according to the Dallas Morning News. The team is trying to put off arthroscopic surgery until after the season.
Analysis: Howard has missed several chunks of time this season with various injuries. In 45 games, he averaged 18.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists over 32.3 minutes. At this time, it would appear he is far too risky to insert into a playoff lineup in a Fantasy league as there is no indication he will be able to return at any point in the upcoming three-game week. Stash him only if you can afford the roster space at this point as you can expect a very limited version of Howard to return whenever he does.
News: The Dallas News reports that Josh Howard won't play the rest of this week, which encompasses three games: Tuesday at home against Detroit and on the road Thursday at Atlanta and Friday at Indiana. He may need surgery sooner or later on his injured left ankle.
Analysis: Howard will attempt to resume practice next week. After Friday's game in Indiana, the Mavericks have four days off and it is possible that Howard could be available for a full week in Week 22. Although, that seems to be wishful thinking at this point. At some point, arthroscopic surgery is planned for Howard. It remains to be seen if that can be delayed until the off-season.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that the Mavericks expect Josh Howard to miss "a few more" games after missing Sunday's game at the Lakers with continued soreness in his left ankle.
Analysis: The report adds that the team has been quiet on what the problem is with Howard's sore left ankle. Howard and Jerry Stackhouse (right foot) were re-examined on Saturday, but there is no word on how long Howard will have to sit out. Fantasy owners have to consider him far too risky to rely upon in the upcoming scoring period with this news. Dallas plays four game, but Howard is not guaranteed to play in any of them.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard missed his fourth straight with a left ankle injury Friday in Golden State. There is still no concrete timetable set for his return.
Analysis: It is unknown how long Howard could be out, but the safe bet as of now is to keep him reserved in daily leagues for Sunday's game in Los Angeles. Howard could be out for a while depending on what the latest round of tests show. Keep an eye on what happens, but it appears like Howard will be an injury risk for the next scoring period as well.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard had another round of tests on his left ankle and was expected to rejoin the team late Thursday. He is not expected to play Friday night against Golden State.
Analysis: It is unknown how long Howard could be out, but the safe bet as of now is to keep him reserved in daily leagues for Friday's game. Howard could be out for a while depending on what the latest round of tests showed. Keep an eye on what happens, but it appears like Howard will be an injury risk for the next scoring period as well.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Mavericks forward Josh Howard will see a specialist again Thursday for further evaluation on his sprained left ankle. He is expected to rejoin the team Thursday, but his playing status is unknown. He is not expected to play Friday at Golden State.
Analysis: Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Howard will get good news on his ankle and can return soon. For now, keep Howard reserved in all leagues. When healthy, Howard is a No. 2 Fantasy option, but this ankle injury could be a problem that lingers for the rest of the season.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that "the possibility exists" that the injured left ankle Josh Howard is dealing with could keep him out of the Mavericks' lineup through the end of March. He remained in Dallas on Monday along with trainer Casey Smith to review the results of his latest tests. The specialist advised that Howard needed more tests to determine the severity of the injury and the best course of action.
Analysis: Howard is not with the Mavericks on a crucial four-game road trip that begins Tuesday night in Phoenix. No timetable has been established by the club other than to concede Howard won't play against the Suns or Wednesday night in Portland. That leaves Friday's game in Golden State in question, but we feel it is highly unlikely he will play then either. Mavericks officials are hopeful he will be back sooner rather than later, but they temper that optimism with the knowledge this injury has plagued Howard for much of the season and could keep him sidelined for weeks rather than days.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard will likely be out Tuesday at Phoenix. Howard sat out Dallas' 119-103 win over Washington on Saturday night because of a sprained left ankle. Howard, third on the Mavs with 18.0 points a contest, is scheduled to visit a specialist to determine how long he'll remain out of the lineup. He aggravated the injury in a loss to Oklahoma City on March 2, but toughed it out the entire game in a win over San Antonio on Wednesday night before sitting out the second half of a loss at New Orleans the following evening.
Analysis: It is unknown how long Howard could be out, but the safe bet as of now is to keep him reserved in daily leagues for Tuesday's game. Howard could play in the Mavericks' three other games if his ankle is considered OK. Keep an eye on what happens, but it appears like Howard is out against the Suns.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard went through a battery of tests Friday on his left foot and ankle and the next step is to see an ankle and foot specialist. The Mavericks said they will know more about Howard's status Monday before they leave for Phoenix and a four-game western road swing. Howard missed Saturday's game against Washington with the injury.
Analysis: It sounds like Howard will be a risky play for this scoring period, so the safe option is to be cautious when setting your lineup. Hopefully he can play this week, and Dallas does have four games during the scoring period, but he could also be careful with the injury since it's something that has plagued him the entire season. When healthy, Howard is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard (foot) will miss Saturday's game against Washington. He went to a doctor Saturday to receive further examination. Howard has dealt with an ankle injury for a better part of this season.
Analysis: Howard failed to reach double digits in scoring for the second time in the last three games, going 3-for-10 from the field against New Orleans on Thursday. He has scored only seven points in two games out of his last three. In both games, he played only 18 minutes and hit only three shots. He clearly is not 100 percent and Fantasy owners have to consider him a severe injury risk for the upcoming scoring period, during which the Mavericks do play four games. This injury does not appear to be going away any time soon.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard failed to reach double digits in scoring for the second time in the last three games, going 3-for-10 from the field against New Orleans on Thursday and scoring only seven points. Howard has been dealing with a problematic left ankle this week that made him questionable for Wednesday's game against San Antonio.
Analysis: Howard has now scored only seven points in two games out of his last three. In both games, he played only 18 minutes and hit only three shots. He's not playing his best basketball lately but should still be considered a viable No. 2 Fantasy option as he battles through his ankle problems.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard was able to play on Wednesday against the Spurs and had a pretty decent game. He scored 29 points in the game, adding seven rebounds and an assist in a 107-102 win. He went 10-of-15 from the field, hitting four of the five triples he attempted.
Analysis: It's not a good sign that Howard is once again having to deal with ankle problems, but it is nice to see that the injury didn't keep him out on Wednesday. Be careful to monitor his injury status the rest of the way, but keep him active as long as he is playing as a viable No. 2 option.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard is a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against San Antonio. Coach Rick Carlisle said after shootaround that the Mavericks are hopeful Howard will play. He was hurt in Monday's loss against Oklahoma City.
Analysis: The safe option in daily leagues is to keep Howard reserved since he had problems with his ankle earlier this year. Hopefully he will be able to play, but he won't be 100 percent since the ankle is still hurt. When healthy, Howard is a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard has aggravated his problematic left ankle and left the Mavericks' game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Howard started Monday night's game at Oklahoma City and scored seven points before halftime but was not a part of Dallas' lineup to start the second half. "His ankle was bothering him at halftime, so he couldn't go any more. That was that," coach Rick Carlisle said.
Analysis: Howard missed 11 games earlier this season with the ankle injury and wound up wearing a walking boot to help with his recovery. Howard is the Mavericks' third-leading scorer with an average of 18.3 points. The injury has obviously been a hindrance in 2008-09 since Howard's scoring has dropped from 19.9 to 18.3. He still has high-end Fantasy appeal when healthy, but we expect a little more from Howard when he is at 100 percent.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard had 19 points, six rebounds and one assist Tuesday at San Antonio. This was Howard's lowest point total in his past four games and he is averaging 20.2 and 5.4 rebounds in his past five games.
Analysis: After a slow start due to injuries, Howard is finally starting to play as you expected. Keep him active in all leagues and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard picked up a double-double in a win over the Nets on Wednesday night. Howard was 8-of-17 for 24 points as he went 1-of-2 from deep. He added 10 rebounds and four assists in the game.
Analysis: Howard is again playing well for Dallas with an average of 19 points, six boards, three dimes, 1.2 steals, a block and almost a three per night over his last five games. He's a Rotisserie stud and worth starting at all times in Fantasy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard is still dealing with a wrist injury. Howard's left wrist, which caused him to miss several games earlier this season, was killing him when he woke up Thursday morning. But he still played against the Celtics and finished with 17 points, three rebounds and two assists despite having to take a cortisone shot in the evening to play against the Celtics. Howard hopes four days of rest with the All-Star break will do wonders for his wrist. Even if it doesn't, he vows not to miss any time, especially with Jason Terry already sidelined. "Just as long as I don't break it," Howard said, "I'm going to be out there." Howard indicated that postseason surgery on the wrist appears to be a strong possibility.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Howard's injury going forward and hope he doesn't have to miss any time. When healthy, he is a No. 2 Fantasy option, but if he's playing hurt it will limit his play. The rest from the All-Star break should help, and as long as he's not expected to miss any time, keep him active in all leagues.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard scored 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting in Tuesday's win over the Kings. Howard added a three, five dimes and six boards with a block and a steal.
Analysis: Howard had one of those games in which he looks like an absolute Rotisserie stud as he contributed stats across the board. He's averaging 18-5-2 over his last five games and remains a must-start at all times.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard scored 23 points Wednesday against Portland, his most since Dec. 30. He also added four rebounds and two assists. This was Howard's third game over 20 points in his past 13 games.
Analysis: Howard has battled various ailments all season, but he appears healthy and hopefully this is a sign of things to come. He has become the third scoring option in Dallas behind Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry, but Howard is still capable of good outings like this and should remain active in all lineups.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard didn't show any ill effects of a back problem on Wednesday night as he shot out of the gates for the Mavericks against the Blazers. Howard scored 15 points in the game's first 15 minutes to help Dallas go ahead by as many as 16 early as they held on for the win. He shot 11-of-17 from the field with a three and added four rebounds.
Analysis: Howard had finally been playing well before the back problem crept up and returned to playing well despite dealing with the ailment. He's starting games fast and putting up decent Rotisserie-type numbers as well. Continue to start Howard in all leagues and hope he stays healthy.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Mavericks forward Josh Howard tweaked his back in the first half of Monday's win over Orlando, but he doesn't expect it to keep him out of the lineup Wednesday against Portland.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 17.4 points and 5.0 rebounds in his past five games and should continue to post solid stats for the rest of this year. Hopefully the back problem doesn't hinder his game, and remember he dealt with wrist and ankle injuries earlier this season. For now, continue to start Howard in all leagues and hope he stays healthy.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard had 19 points, five rebounds and two assists Wednesday against Golden State and has now scored at least 19 points in his past four games.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 17.6 points and 5.2 rebounds in his past five games and should continue to post solid stats for the rest of this year now that he's healthy. Continue to monitor the trade rumors, however, because Howard is a candidate to get moved, but as long as he plays at this level he remains a solid Fantasy option.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had 18 points, five rebounds and four assists in Sunday's game in Boston. He is averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.0 assists in his four games since returning from Thursday.
Analysis: Howard has played at least 34 minutes in all four games since his return. He does not appear to be limited in any regard and is starting to rebound again, something he was not doing shortly before being shut down to let his wrist heal. Start him in any league as a No. 2 forward again.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Mavericks coach Mark Cuban said Wednesday that Josh Howard is not trade bait, addressing speculation to the contrary. "You can quote me on this," the Dallas Mavericks owner said. "I'm not trading Josh Howard."
Analysis: Cuban dismissed recent speculation that the Mavericks might be interested in a deal sending Howard to Miami for Shawn Marion. Whether or not that actually happens still remains to be seen. It would not be the first time an owner misled the media. Howard managed 19 points in his last game at Milwaukee on Wednesday and has played well since returning from his wrist injury. Fantasy owners should keep him active as a No. 2 forward.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard scored 19 points in his second game back after missing four in a row with an injured left wrist on Wednesday night in a loss to Milwaukee. Howard was 7-of-18 from the field with three rebounds.
Analysis: Howard was 3-of-13 on Monday at Philadelphia in his first game back for 10 points with eight boards. It is clear that he found his stroke on Wednesday and is now worth using again in Fantasy as low-end forward until he picks up the pace a bit more.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (wrist) was in the starting lineup for Monday's afternoon game in Philadelphia. He had missed his previous four games.
Analysis: We will have to see how Howard fares in Monday's game, but he is not completely out of the woods yet. He has missed 17 games already due to the injured wrist and Fantasy owners who played it safe and are waiting for him to play a couple of games to prove healthy still made a prudent choice. Hopefully he can get back to his healthy self and improve upon his rebounding totals, which have been lacking recently possibly due to the injury.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard missed his fourth straight game with a wrist injury on Saturday night against the Jazz. There is no concrete timetable for his return at this point but he remains day to day.
Analysis: Howard sprained his wrist in the second half of last week's loss to Phoenix and has missed the last four games. He has now missed 17 games because of this sprained wrist, but is a must-start option when healthy. Until there's more concrete info on a timetable for his return, he should remained stashed. That goes for Fantasy Week 13 (Jan. 15-29) at this point.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Josh Howard (wrist) is not expected to play Saturday against Utah. It would be his fourth straight game missed.
Analysis: Howard sprained his wrist in the second half of last week's loss to Phoenix and has missed the last three games. He has now missed 16 games because of this sprained wrist, but is a must-start option when healthy. Until there's more concrete info on a timetable for his return, he should remained stashed.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard (wrist) was cleared for more activity in practice Friday. Coach Rick Carlisle considers Howard day to day and would not commit to saying whether or not Howard would play Saturday against Utah.
Analysis: Howard sprained his wrist in the second half of last week's loss to Phoenix and has missed the last three games. He has now missed 16 games because of this sprained wrist, but is a must-start option when healthy. Until there's more concrete info on a timetable for his return, he should remained stashed.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard sat out of Wednesday's game against the Hornets with what has recently been diagnosed as a sprained wrist, the second time he has sprained the same wrist this season. There is no word on how long he will ultimately be out with this injury, but for now he is questionable for Saturday's game against Utah.
Analysis: Howard has now missed 16 games because of this sprained wrist this season and it will likely be more than that when all is said and done. He is a must-start option when healthy, but until there's more info on his timetable for return, he should be stashed.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Josh Howard has no structural damage in his left wrist. It has been diagnosed as a sprain after further checkups. He is ruled out for Tuesday's game against Denver and coach Rick Carlisle said it's highly unlikely he will be ready to play Wednesday against New Orleans. "Beyond that we'll see how it goes," Carlisle said.
Analysis: Howard injured the wrist Friday night at Phoenix when he tried to brace himself after falling awkwardly. It's the second time this season he's sprained that wrist. All in all, Howard will miss his 15th game of the season Tuesday in only the Mavs 38th. Fantasy owners have no choice but to continue to stash him.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard did not play in Sunday's game at Sacramento with a sprained wirst and according to the Dallas Morning News will also miss the Mavericks' game at Denver on Tuesday. Howard had the wrist heavily bandaged on Sunday and will stay with the team through the end of their road trip which ends Tuesday in Denver. He will then go to Dallas on Monday for further examination by Mavericks' physician Dr. T.O. Souryal. Howard was injured when he hit the court after going up for a rebound with 9:43 left in the third quarter of Friday's game against Phoenix. He departed in obvious pain cradling his left wrist. He said it was similar to an injury he had earlier in the season.
Analysis: Howard is in some serious pain from this injury and there's a good chance that he won't be able to play in the upcoming week. We recommend sitting him and waiting to hear more on the extent of this injury. When healthy, Howard is a must-start option.
News:Josh Howard had 16 points Friday at Phoenix before departing with a sprained left wrist in the third quarter. X-rays were negative. Howard was injured when he hit the court after going up for a rebound with 9:43 left in the third quarter. He departed in obvious pain cradling his left wrist. "I got knocked off balance going up for a rebound and came down kind of off-balance and tried to catch myself and all the weight went on my left wrist," Howard said. He said it was similar to an injury he had earlier in the season.
Analysis: This is the same wrist that he injured earlier this season, which could lead to him missing some more games. Howard to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that the injury "hurts like hell" and he did not seem encouraged about playing Sunday in Sacramento. He wants to get back home and into a hospital with more sophisticated equipment than at the arena. Fantasy owners should start preparing to be without him for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Against the Clippers in a victory on Tuesday, Dallas SF Josh Howard scored 22 points and added six rebounds. He's finally beginning to play well again after shifting back to his natural small forward position from shooting guard, where he struggled.
Analysis: Howard also picked up a steal, a block and two assists on Tuesday and those are still below what we are used to seeing out of him intangible-wise. That said, he's more assertive at the forward spot and you can see him beginning to get back to the Rotisserie stud he was last seasons shortly. He's still worth starting at all times in Fantasy.
News: Mavericks swingman Josh Howard scored 29 points with nine rebounds and seven assists Sunday in Los Angeles against the Clippers. The Mavs were playing without Dirk Nowitzki due to the fact he was serving a one-game suspension.
Analysis: Howard broke out in a big way thanks to the absence of Nowitzki. However, it's not the offensive upswing that is the good sign. It was his contributions on the glass. He had just seven rebounds in his previous four games combined. Now that he appears to be back to full strength after missing time with an ankle injury, he should be active in all formats again.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had 15 points two rebounds and no assists in Thursday's game in Portland. He is averaging 15.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists over his last five contests.
Analysis: Howard does not seem to be fully back to 100 percent after missing 11 games with an ankle sprain. The scoring is still decent, but it should increase. The rebounding numbers should see a significant boost as he gets back to full strength. Keep him active as long as he is healthy enough to play.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard started on Wednesday night against the Raptors. It was his second game back from injury and his first start. Howard played 22 minutes and scored 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting with two threes. His nice shooting touch comes after Monday's 1-for-5 effort from the field and shows that Howard almost ready to be unleashed full time.
Analysis: Howard looks like he could be back at 100 percent even quicker than expected. He already started and the sky is the limit now. If he can finish the week strong, you should definitely get him active again over Week 9 (Dec. 22-28).
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Mavs F Josh Howard says it felt good to get back on the floor after missing 11 consecutive games with a sprained left ankle. After being fitted in a protective boot last week, Howard played his first game Monday since Nov. 18. He played 14 minutes and scored seven points on 1-of-5 shooting -- a 3-pointer. He did not start, but coach Rick Carlisle said he hopes to get Howard back in the starting lineup soon. "There was some discomfort, but it's stuff I can work through," Howard said.
Analysis: Carlisle said Howard will be eased back into the starting lineup. Howard, whose last game was Nov. 18, still entered Monday's tilt as Dallas' No. 2 scorer at 20.3 points per game. He began wearing a walking boot a week ago, then shed the boot over the weekend when swelling subsided. Dallas was 9-2 in Howard's absence, so they didn't need to rush him back into action. Howard will eventually return to being a 20-point threat, but it might take a few games before he is a must-start Fantasy option once again.
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard returned Monday against the Denver Nuggets after being inactive for 11 straight games because of a sprained left ankle. Howard didn't start, but came off the bench late in the first quarter. He played just 14 minutes off the bench while scoring seven points. He also had two rebounds and two assists. Howard admitted some "discomfort" but he said that overall, "It felt good. Any time you're out for a while, you have to get back into a rhythm."
Analysis: Coach Rick Carlisle said Howard will be eased back into the starting lineup. Howard, whose last game was Nov. 18, still entered Monday's tilt as Dallas' No. 2 scorer at 20.3 points per game. He began wearing a walking boot a week ago, then shed the boot over the weekend when swelling subsided. Dallas was 9-2 in Howard's absence, so they didn't need to rush him back into action. Howard will eventually return to being a 20-point threat, but it might take a few games before he is a must-start Fantasy option once again.
News: G/F Josh Howard put his problematic left ankle into a walking boot Tuesday, and the Mavericks don't know how long they'll be without their second-leading scorer and rebounder. The former All-Star had missed eight straight games because of the injury. The frustrating part for the Mavericks was that every time he seemed close to returning, the ankle would swell and get sore again. "You're talking about a dynamic athlete that needs to be up to near full capacity physically to do the things he does," coach Rick Carlisle said. "So you can't put him out there unless he is pain-free and swelling-free and right now he's not."
Analysis: Multiple MRIs have shown no structural damage and nothing requiring surgery; Carlisle described it as "nothing that's out of the ordinary." Thus, the best option was to mobilize the ankle in hopes that a long rest is all he needs. "He's made progress, but he isn't there yet so we're going to shut him down for a little bit," Carlisle said. Howard averages 20.3 points and 8.2 rebounds, both trailing only Dirk Nowitzki. The swingman also is among the club's best defenders, able to cover guards and forwards. He's a must-start in Fantasy when healthy, but you obviously need to reserve him for now. His absence has the potential to measure in weeks.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard hoped to play in Friday's game, but he missed that one and missed on Saturday against Atlanta as well. That is eight straight games out for Howard, who continues to be bothered by a troublesome ankle sprain.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential with the 10 being rebounds -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Since he missed Saturday's game, he's a major injury risk for Fantasy in the next scoring period.
News:Josh Howard missed his seventh straight game Thursday night as he continues to be bothered by a troublesome ankle sprain. He was hoping to return to the lineup, reported the Dallas Morning News, but the team ultimately decided to keep him on the bench.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential with the 10 being rebounds -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Howard's next opportunity to return to the lineup comes Saturday vs. Atlanta.
News:The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard will be a game-time decision for Thursday night's game against Phoenix. He has missed six games with an ankle sprain.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential with the 10 being rebounds -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. It sounds like a return could come soon even if it does not happen Thursday night.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard was out of the lineup Tuesday against the Clippers, missing his sixth straight game with a sprained left ankle.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. The Mavericks still don't have a clear timetable for his return, so keep him reserved in daily leagues.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard could not return from an ankle injury on Saturday against the Kings. He participated in Friday's shootaround but didn't play in the game, either. He's now missed five games in a row with the injury.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. His absence Saturday now signals him a major Fantasy injury risk in Fantasy Week 6 (Dec. 1-7).
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard participated in Friday morning's shoot-around, but was not able to play later that night against the Lakers because of an ankle injury. He missed a fourth straight game and remains questionable for Saturday against the Kings.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Keep him reserved in daily leagues just in case, but if he plays Saturday, you'll want to get him active again for Fantasy Week 6 (Dec. 1-7).
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (ankle) shot the ball in Friday's morning shoot-around, but the team has not said if he will play in Friday night's game.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Keep him reserved in daily leagues just in case, but if he plays Friday, you'll want to get him active again for Fantasy Week 6 (Dec. 1-7).
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, who has missed three straight games with an ankle injury, took part in some of Thursday's practice. He remains a question mark for Friday's game at the Lakers, though. Either way, Antoine Wright will start in his absence, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Keep him reserved in daily leagues just in case, but if he plays Friday, you'll want to get him active again for Fantasy Week 6 (Dec. 1-7).
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard missed his third straight game Tuesday against the Pacers with a left ankle injury. The team still has no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Howard brings near 20-10 potential -- a rare quality for a guard-eligible player -- so his Fantasy owners are itching to get him back in the lineup. Keep him reserved in daily leagues since the Mavericks still haven't hinted of his return, but he remains a No. 2 Fantasy G/F when healthy.
News: Dallas' No. 2 scorer, Josh Howard (20.3 ppg), missed his second straight game Friday against the Grizzlies with a left ankle injury. He is questionable heading into Dallas' next game Tuesday against the Pacers.
Analysis: Howard doesn't have to worry about playing again until Tuesday, so he will get a full week of rest before he even has to think about taking the court. Howard is a solid No. 2 Fantasy forward when healthy, but still remains an injury-risk start Week 5 (Nov. 24-30).
News: Dallas guard Josh Howard was inactive for the Mavericks' game Wednesday night against Houston because of a left ankle injury. "He's been doing everything," Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said. "He's been guarding, he's been getting a lot of rebounds. He's been playing great basketball. He's been a big part of what's been going on." Carlisle said Howard was "day to day." The Mavericks play Memphis on Friday night.
Analysis: Howard, averaging 20.3 points and a team-high 8.2 rebounds, was injured during the Mavs' 100-83 win in Charlotte on Tuesday night. Howard did not leave the game and scored 21 points in 35 minutes. Continue to start him as a No. 2 Fantasy guard or forward, when healthy.
News:Josh Howard scored 31 points with 14 rebounds, three blocks, two assists and a steal Sunday against the Knicks. It was his second game back from a wrist injury.
Analysis: Howard has scored 52 points over his last two games and seems to be more than back to full strength. Anyone who wanted to see how his health was before activating him should feel more than comfortable activating him again.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard returned from a wrist injury Thursday night in a loss to the Bulls and scored 21 points to lead his team. Howard added 11 rebounds and looked healthy.
Analysis: Howard is the team's second-leading scorer at 17 points and has taken the rebounding lead from Dirk Nowitzki. Continue to start him as a No. 2 Fantasy guard or forward.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard missed a second straight game Tuesday night, keeping Dallas without one of its top defenders against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers. Howard sprained his left wrist against Denver on Friday night. Without him, the Mavs were trampled 103-92 Sunday by the previously winless Los Angeles Clippers. Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said Howard remains day-to-day. The Mavericks next play Thursday at Chicago, then are home Friday against Orlando. "(There's) some gradual improvement, but he's just not there yet," Carlisle said 90 minutes before facing the Lakers.
Analysis: Howard is the team's second-leading scorer at 17 points and is tied with Dirk Nowitzki for the rebounding lead at 7.2. He's also third in assists. Continue to start him as a No. 2 Fantasy guard or forward, when healthy. He should be able to return before Week 3 (Nov. 17-23).
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Josh Howard is unlikely to play Tuesday night due to his ailing left wrist. Howard saw a doctor Monday to check out his wrist, which might have been sprained.
Analysis: When asked Howard's status Tuesday morning, Carlisle said he might play tonight or it might take a week, meaning he really isn't sure. Howard's pain threshold and his ability to catch the basketball will be the determining factor. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status.
News:Gerald Green started at small forward Sunday at the Clippers and had 13 points and 12 rebounds in place of Josh Howard, who was sidelined because of a sore left wrist. The injury occurred during a loss to Cleveland on Nov. 3, and he aggravated it during the fourth quarter of Friday's loss.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day, but a sore wrist should not keep him out for very long. Consider him an injury-risk play for the upcoming scoring period, but he should be able to play at some point during the four-game week. Gerald Green will then return to a limited role.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard equaled a season low with 14 points Tuesday at San Antonio, but he pulled down 12 rebounds to give him his second double-double of the season. He also had one assist and one steal.
Analysis: After averaging 19.9 points per game last season, Howard has only once topped 20 points in four games this season. The Mavericks haven't exactly developed any new scoring options, though, so Howard's scoring should get back where it belongs soon enough. Continue to start him as a No. 2 Fantasy guard or forward.
News: Dallas SF Josh Howard played a team-high 41 minutes on Thursday in a loss to Houston, the opening game for the Mavericks this season. Howard scored 28 points on 11-of-19 shooting and added 11 rebounds, four assists and a block.
Analysis: Howard has eligibility as a small forward and a shooting guard in Fantasy and that doubles his Fantasy value. Howard averaged career highs in points (19.9), rebounds (7.0), assists (2.2) and minutes played (36.2) during the 2007-08 regular season and only figures to get better. He's a must-start as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward.
News: The Mavericks are one of the nine NBA teams in Week 1 to play just two games. They will start of the season on Oct. 30 against Houston, who ranked fourth in the NBA in defense last season (92.0 ppg). Then, they'll travel to Minnesota to face Minnesota to face a Timberwolves team that allowed 102.4 points per game. The good news is that the team enters the season at full strength.
Analysis: The team's prominent trio of Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howard and Jason Kidd are good starts in most leagues this week because the condensed schedule means no team is playing more than three games anyway. Jason Terry will come off the bench behind Antoine Wright, but Terry is the better Fantasy option because he will get the majority of the minutes there. Wright is worth owning in larger leagues because he is going to get a good amount of minutes, but is not yet worth activating. Erick Dampier will be the starting center and, as usual, his appeal is limited in Fantasy to that of a No. 3 center. It's not time yet to start fringe options like Brandon Bass, Jerry Stackhouse, Jose Juan Barea, DeSagana Diop, Shawne Williams or Gerald Green. At the moment, Barea is the only player of that group worth owning as Kidd's backup.
News: The Mavericks are one of the nine NBA teams in Week 1 to play just two games. They will start of the season on Oct. 30 against Houston, who ranked fourth in the NBA in defense last season (92.0 ppg). Then, they'll travel to Minnesota to face Minnesota to face a Timberwolves team that allowed 102.4 points per game. The good news is that the team enters the season at full strength.
Analysis: The team's prominent trio of Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howar and Dirk Nowitzki are good starts in most leagues this week because the condensed schedule means no team is playing more than three games anyway. Jason Terry will come off the bench behind Antoine Wright, but Terry is the better Fantasy option because he will get the majority of the minutes there. Wright is worth owning in larger leagues because he is going to get a good amount of minutes, but is not yet worth activating. Erick Dampier will be the starting center and, as usual, his appeal is limited in Fantasy to that of a No. 3 center. It's not time yet to start fringe options like Brandon Bass, Jerry Stackhouse, Jose Juan Barea, DeSagana Diop, Shawne Williams or Gerald Green. At the moment, Barea is the only player of that group worth owning as Kidd's backup.
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard has been arrested in his hometown after police said he was drag racing on a Winston-Salem street. He is charged with speeding 94 mph in a 55 mph zone, careless and reckless driving, and speed competition. He has been released from the Forsyth County jail on a written promise to appear in court Sept. 23.
Analysis: This situation could linger into the preseason, but is not expected to keep from his duties with the Mavericks. Howard averaged career highs in points (19.9), rebounds (7.0), assists (2.2) and minutes played (36.2) during the 2007-08 regular season. He equaled his career-high in games played at 76. His combination of points and rebounds alone make him a worthy No. 1 forward in most Fantasy formats and he'll be worth a pick in the first three rounds in most leagues come Draft Day.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard averaged career highs in points (19.9), rebounds (7.0), assists (2.2) and minutes played (36.2) during the 2007-08 regular season. He equaled his career-high in games played at 76.
Analysis: Howard has increased his scoring in each of his five NBA seasons and those numbers figure to improve with the 28-year-old in the prime of his career. His combination of points and rebounds alone make him a worthy No. 1 forward in most Fantasy formats and he'll be worth a pick in the first three rounds in most leagues come Draft Day.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (knee) returned to the floor Sunday at Seattle after missing Saturday's game with an injury he sustained Thursday at Utah. He scored 16 points with seven rebounds, three assists and a steal in 28 minutes on the floor.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should take what they can get from Howard at this stage, considering he could have very easily sat out the last two games of the regular season. Don't expect him to crack 30 minutes played in the regular season finale Wednesday against New Orleans with the Mavericks looking to stay fresh for a playoff run.
News: Dallas was without Josh Howard Saturday at Portland, who aggravated a bruised right knee Thursday against Utah. He originally hurt it last Saturday when he collided with Shaquille O'Neal. According to the Dallas Morning-News, Howard is expected back Sunday.
Analysis: The Mavericks have two games remaining and, barring any setbacks, Howard should play in both. Dallas has clinched a playoff spot and would like to have Howard at 100 percent for the playoffs, but also need him to be in some type of game shape.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard left in the third quarter Thursday against Utah with a bruised right knee. He hurt it on Sunday running into Shaquille O'Neal, then aggravated it in the first half. He tried coming back at the start and end of the third quarters, "but couldn't do much," he said. "I'm going to get some rest and be ready to get back out there," Howard said. Dallas will play Saturday in Portland and Sunday in Seattle, then return home for the season finale Wednesday against New Orleans.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Howard, but don't be surprised if he misses Saturday's game or even Sunday's game to rest. The Mavericks have clinched a playoff spot and would like to have Howard at 100 percent for the playoffs.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard had 17 points, six rebounds and three assists Tuesday against Seattle.
Analysis: Howard has played well in the final month of the season. Look for that to continue and keep him active in all scoring formats at this time.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard scored 24 points with nine rebounds and four assists Sunday at Phoenix, giving him seven straight games with 20-plus points.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 27.2 ppg, 8.0 rpg and 3.6 apg over his last five games and remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the final scoring period of the season. The Mavericks have five games in the season's final 10 days.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard went for 36 points, nine rebounds and three assists Sunday at Golden State. He has now scored 30 points in three consecutive games.
Analysis: Howard will continue to be the primary scoring option for Dallas with Dirk Nowitzki (knee) out. Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Howard will continue to stat on this pace the rest of the year.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard scored 30 points in Thursday's loss at Golden State, giving him back-to-back 30-point games in the absence of Dirk Nowitzki.
Analysis: Howard will continue to be the primary scoring option for Dallas sans Nowitzki. He should be a lock for 20 points each night out until Dirk can return in a week, possibly longer.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard went for 32 points, seven rebounds and two assists Tuesday against the Clippers. It was Howard's first game without Dirk Nowitzki, and Howard led the Mavericks in scoring.
Analysis: This is the type of game we should expect from Howard with Nowitzki out. Hope for more outings like this and continue to start Howard in all scoring formats.
News: The Mavericks may have lost Dirk Nowitzki with knee and ankle injuries for at least two weeks, according to initial reports. This could provide Josh Howard a much bigger offensive role in the upcoming Fantasy weeks. He had 13 points with nine rebounds Sunday against San Antonio.
Analysis: Howard, who is averaging 19.5 ppg and 7.0 rpg, could see his scoring average soar over 20 ppg with Nowitzki out. The team will have to look to him as its primary scoring option.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard went for 24 points, six rebounds and one assist Thursday against Boston.
Analysis: Howard has been struggling recently, so this was a good sign. Hopefully he will break out of his funk and get back to being a consistent Fantasy producer. Continue to start him in all scoring formats and hope for more outings like this.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard had 19 points, five rebounds and one assists in 35 minutes Tuesday against the Lakers. He went 6 of 14 from the field and 7 of 10 from the free-throw line. Howard has scored 20-plus points just once in his last six games.
Analysis: Howard looked phenomenal in the first two months of the season as he scored 20-plus points on a nightly basis. He just missed averaging 20 points in January, but his numbers have taken a dive since February. He is averaging just 16.5 points over his last 21 games. There is no rhyme or reason for the drop in production. He could be nursing an injury, but the Mavs haven't said anything. Howard is still worth starting as a No. 2 Fantasy forward until further notice.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard went for 14 points, five rebounds and two assists Monday against the Knicks.
Analysis: Howard has struggled recently dealing with a back injury and getting used to new teammate Jason Kidd. Look for Howard to continue to adjust his game and he remains a quality Fantasy option in all scoring formats.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard shot 8-for-19 from the field with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist in Thursday's loss to Houston. He also shot 1-for-2 from beyond the arc in 40 minutes.
Analysis: Howard had been battling with some back issues of late, but it appears to be a non-issue now. He is not going to miss any time, though, and can clearly produce adequately for his Fantasy owners despite the injury. Continue to start him and hope his shot improves.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard scored 25 points Monday at Utah. He also had four rebounds and two assists. He had scored at least 20 points only twice in his previous 11 games, averaging 14.8 points over that stretch.
Analysis: Howard has battled some back issues of late, which might have affected his shooting. He still produces no worse than adequate numbers, though, and deserves to start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard shot 4-for-15 the field in Sunday's overtime loss at the L.A. Lakers. He finished with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists.
Analysis: Howard has been battling with some back issues of late and it appears to be affecting his shooting. He is not going to miss any time, though, and can clearly produce adequately for his Fantasy owners despite the injury. Continue to start him and hope his shot improves.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had 16 points with 8 rebounds in Thursday's loss to San Antonio. He shot 6-for-14 from the field, but was 0-for-4 from beyond the arc.
Analysis: Howard has been battling with some back issues of late and it appears to be affecting his shooting. He is not going to miss any time, though, and can clearly produce adequately for his Fantasy owners despite the injury. Continue to start him and hope his shot improves.
News: According to the Star-Telegram, Dallas forward Josh Howard has battled a sore back and a stomach illness since the All-Star break but causing him the most pain is his ailing jumper. Howard has averaged 14.5 points, about six off his season average, in the last four games, making only 22-of-75 shots (29.3 percent).
Analysis: Look for Howard to bounce back quickly. He also is adjusting to new point guard Jason Kidd, but once the two mesh, Howard's points should rise along with his Fantasy value.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard shot 6-for-19 from the field in Monday's win over Chicago. He scored 16 points with 3 rebounds and an assist. He also blocked a shot.
Analysis: Howard has been struggling with a sore back, possibly affecting his shooting. Fantasy owners can live with it for now, but would like for him to return to his season averages (19.9 points and 7.3 rebounds).
News: According to the Sports Xchange, Mavericks F Josh Howard's sore back is improving. His game should, as well, with Jason Kidd. The team's most athletic player figures to benefit on the fast break with Kidd running. "He's great in the open court, he's athletic, he can run, he can jump, he's a great slasher," Dirk Nowitzki said of Howard. "(Kidd) is just going to make the game easier for a lot of us."
Analysis: Howard will continue to play through pain. Consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in all scoring formats.
News: According to The Dallas Morning News, Mavericks F Josh Howard complained that his back remained sore on Thursday. He recently returned from a two game absence due to a back injury. On Friday, he scored 20 points while shooting 9-for-27 from the field.
Analysis: Howard had to chuck up a ton of shots to get to 20 points and he didn't have a great shooting night, but he managed a 20-7-2 line with 3 steals and a block to boot. It appears he's healthy enough to remain productive in Fantasy and for that reason should be activated.
News: According to The Dallas Morning News, Mavericks F Josh Howard, practiced Thursday and said that his back remains sore. He recently returned from a two game absence due to a back injury.
Analysis: This doesn't sound good, but he is not expected to miss any more games as a result. At least not yet. He looked rusty in his last game out, his return from the injury, and this could be the reason. Fantasy owners who have the luxury should think about sitting him until he gets back to some sense of normalcy.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard returned to the starting lineup Wednesday against the Hornets after missing the two games before the All-Star break with a back injury. Howard was a bit rusty from the field. He went 2 of 11 and finished with eight points. He got four points from the charity stripe. He also had three rebounds and one assist.
Analysis: Howard had almost a 10-day layoff before returning to action Wednesday. Give him a break if he struggled to get back into the flow. He should be hitting jumpers in no time and the addition of Jason Kidd should help his game. Howard remains a must-start Fantasy option until told otherwise.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard did not play in the final game before the All-Star break Thursday against the Suns. He has now missed the last two games after injuring himself Monday.
Analysis: The Mavs rested Howard on Thursday with the All-Star break to give him a few extra days to recover. He should be ready to go come Fantasy Week 17 (Feb. 18-24), but Fantasy owners will want to stay tuned. Howard is averaging 20.3 points, 74. rebounds and 2.1 assists. The Mavs are trying to trade for Jason Kidd, and if the deal goes through, Howard's scoring might rise in the second half since Kidd distributes the ball like no other.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (back) sat out Wednesday's game against Portland. He is still considered day to day.
Analysis: Howard hurt himself Monday and could be given Thursday off with the All-Star break looming to get him back to full strength. He likely won't miss much more than that, though, and we think Howard will still be a safe start for the upcoming scoring period.
News: G/F Josh Howard led the short-handed Mavericks with 17 points Monday at Philadelphia before leaving in the fourth quarter with a back injury of his own. He left in the fourth after he collided with Sixers forward Reggie Evans and crashed on his back. He returned after a first trip to the locker room, but a bruised lower back forced him out for good with 7:17 left.
Analysis: Howard also had six rebounds and four assists. No telling yet how long this back injury will keep him out, but at least if he does miss time, he'll have the All-Star break to recover. With a career-high 20.4 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists, he's a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard had just 8 points to go with 8 rebounds and 3 assists in Friday's win over Memphis while playing only 26 minutes.
Analysis: The Mavs used seven players off the bench Friday in a game in which they didn't have to exert themselves much, allowing them to hold back some of their more prominent stars. No player played more than 27 minutes in the game. Howard remains a terrific Fantasy option.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, coming off a poor-shooting Sunday at Detroit, had 28 points on 10-of-20 shooting, including 3-of-3 from 3-point range, Monday at Orlando. He also had seven rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: Despite the off performance Sunday, Howard has played well of late. He has averaged 23.4 points and 8.1 rebounds over his last eight games and remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: During a game in which the Mavericks scored 67 points Sunday at Detroit, G/F Josh Howard had 15. He also pulled down nine rebounds and dished out one assist. He shot only 6-for-17 from the field, however.
Analysis: Poor shooting happens to everyone from time to time, so don't think too much of it. The fact that Howard managed as many as 15 points is a testament to his good play of late. He has averaged 22.7 points and 8.3 rebounds over his last two games and remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard learned Thursday that he would not be heading to a second straight All-Star game, but he didn't let it distract him against the Celtics. Howard still poured in 19 points and scored more than 15 points for the sixth straight game. Howard, who also had six rebounds and two assists Tuesday, is averaging 24.0 points that span.
Analysis: Howard is starting to find his shooting groove again after missing a game Jan. 12 for personal reasons. It appears as though it is safe to keep the former Wake Forest product active. Howard is having another fine season after scoring a career-high 18.9 points last season. He is averaging 20.9 points this season, but still didn't garner enough to make the All-Star game.
News:Josh Howard hit his first eight shots on the way to 26 points and the Dallas Mavericks shot 54 percent in a 103-84 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night. Howard ended the night 10-of-17 for Dallas. He also had six rebounds and four assists. Howard has scored 20 or more points in his last five games and is averaging 25.0 points in that span.
Analysis: Howard is starting to find his shooting groove again after missing a game Jan. 12 for personal reasons. It appears as though it is safe to keep the former Wake Forest product active. He is averaging a season low 19.5 points in January, but is already back to averaging 20-plus points.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard had 20 points and eight rebounds Sunday against the Nuggets, narrowly missing his third straight game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds. He did, however, add five assists.
Analysis: Howard doesn't usually accumulate so many assists, but his Fantasy owners will take them. With an average of near 21 points and eight rebounds per game, he remains a must-start guard or forward.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds during Wednesday's game against the Bobcats. He hit 10 of 21 shots and 1 of 3 free throws. It was his second double-double in five games and he now has 53 points in his last two games.
Analysis: Howard is starting to find his shooting groove again after missing a game Jan. 12 for personal reasons. It appears as though it is safe to keep the former Wake Forest product active. He is averaging a season low 18.4 points in January, but he should be back up to averaging 20-plus points soon.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard had 32 points Monday at Washington, marking only the second time this season he's broken the 30-point mark. He also had seven rebounds and two assists.
Analysis: Howard actually hasn't been at his best lately, averaging only 16.4 points per game in January. He still has career highs across the board, though, and should remain active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard had 17 points, five rebounds, three steals, an assist and a block Saturday against Seattle. He also shot 2-for-3 from beyond the arc.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 20 points, seven rebounds and two assists this season. He's a solid outside shooter as well and is very productive in all the major categories.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, who sat out a game for personal reasons Saturday, returned to the starting lineup Monday at Sacramento. He had 11 points and six rebounds.
Analysis: Howard has averaged nearly 21 points per game this season, but he's only scored as many as 21 once in his last 10 games. Despite the slump, he remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Dallas F Josh Howard missed Saturday's game against the Clippers due to personal reasons, but he is expected to return for Monday's game against the Kings.
Analysis: Howard is averaging over 20 points this season and is a must-start in all Fantasy formats when he's available to play. Dallas plays just two games this week, but Howard is a great start in leagues that use averages because they'll face good matchups against Sacramento and Seattle, both teams that give up a ton of points.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard scored 18 points with 11 rebounds in Friday's win at Seattle a game after being held to 10 points, his lowest total of the season.
Analysis: Howard is averaging over 20 points this season, and we expected him to bounce back very soon. Fantasy owners should consider Howard a No. 1 forward option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard was held to 10 points off 4-for-12 shooting Wednesday vs. Detroit, his lowest total of the season. He did add nine rebounds, though.
Analysis: Howard is averaging over 20 points this season, so we'd expect him to bounce back very soon. Fantasy owners should consider Howard a No. 1 forward option in most Fantasy formats.
News: For the first time in seven games, Mavericks G/F Josh Howard broke the 20-point mark Sunday at Minnesota, but he shot only 9-for-21 from the floor. He scored 22 points and also pulled down eight rebounds.
Analysis: Both Howard's 21.1 points per game and 7.3 rebounds per game entering Sunday represent career highs for Howard as he continues to build a name for himself in Fantasy. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard scored 19 points and pulled down seven rebounds Thursday against the Cavaliers, giving him averages of 21.3 and 7.2 on the season.
Analysis: Both averages represent career highs for Howard as he continues to build a name for himself in Fantasy. Keep him active across the board.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard, who had to leave Wednesday's game after getting poked in the eye, played 38 minutes Friday against the Hornets. He had 15 points, 10 rebounds and five assists.
Analysis: Howard became a Fantasy favorite during his breakout campaign in 2006-07. He has done little to disappoint this season by averaging 22.2 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He continues to be one of the top Fantasy forwards when healthy.
News: Mavs SF Josh Howard left Wednesday's game against the Raptors after being poked in the eye early in the fourth quarter and did not return. He finished with 19 points, six rebounds and zero assists in 35 minutes. Howard has been in double figures for all 21 games he has dressed.
Analysis: Howard became a Fantasy favorite during his breakout campaign in 2006-07. He hs done little to disappoint this season by averaging 22.4 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists. He continues to be one of the top Fantasy forwards when healthy. We don't expect the eye injury to be too serious, but you never know. He is day to day.
News: Mavericks G/F Josh Howard's career-best 47 points pushed the Mavericks past the visiting Jazz 125-117 on Saturday. Howard's total was the sixth most in Mavs history and topped his previous best by 17. His line: 14-of-19 shooting, 4-of-5 on 3-pointers and 15-of-17 on free throws, plus 10 rebounds, two assists and a block. "Josh is great when he's aggressive for four quarters. Tonight, he had it rolling," teammate Jason Terry said. Howard finished six points shy of the franchise scoring record. "We didn't have much of an answer for Howard," Utah coach Jerry Sloan said. "We couldn't stop him."
Analysis: Howard has continued his natural progression with career-high averages in points (22.4) and rebounds (7.3) this season. He's also gained eligibility at shooting guard and continues to alter between that position and small forward for the Mavericks. Obviously, he should remain active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard scored 20 points with six rebounds and an assist Thursday vs. Denver. He shot 5-for-16 from the field and also added a steal.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 21.0 ppg and 7.1 rpg this season and is a viable option for Fantasy owners now that he is eligible at both guard and forward in leagues that use multiple positions. Continue to start him in all leagues.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard scored 23 points with six rebounds and an assist Thursday vs. San Antonio.
Analysis: Howard put together that line while being guarded by one of the better defensive players in the NBA in Bruce Bowen. Imagine what he can do with lesser defenders. Start him in all leagues.
News: For the fourth time in four games played to start the season, Mavs SF Josh Howard scored at least 20 points at Portland. He also had seven rebounds for the second consecutive game.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 23.0 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 3.0 apg. to start the season. Clearly, he's back to where he left off last season and he's a must-start.
News: Josh Howard once again started at shooting guard for the Mavericks in his second game of the season Monday against the Rockets. He scored 21 points and had six rebounds and four assists.
Analysis: If the trend of him starting at SG continues, Howard will gain duel-eligibility in Fantasy, which will only increase his value. As his value currently stands, he's a No. 1 forward.
News: SF Josh Howard, who missed the Mavericks' first two games because of a suspension, led them with 27 points in their third game Saturday against the Kings. He started at shooting guard and added seven rebounds and six assists.
Analysis: The surprise on Saturday wasn't Howard playing or playing well. The surprise was him playing shooting guard. Eddie Jones took his place at small forward. If the trend continues, Howard will gain duel-eligibility in Fantasy, which will only increase his value. As his value currently stands, he's a No. 1 forward.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard was cleared to practice Monday, six days after he sprained his left wrist in a preseason game against the Bulls. Doctors removed the cast from his wrist. He now wears a removable splint. Howard will travel with the Mavericks on their upcoming road trip to Cleveland and Atlanta but will miss both games because of his suspension for an altercation with Sacramento center Brad Miller in a preseason game.
Analysis: When Howard is healthy -- and not under suspension -- he's a candidate for a breakout season and is a No. 1 forward option in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard (wrist) says that he'd be healthy enough to play in the team's Oct. 31 opener if he wasn't suspended for the first two games of the season. "You know me, I'd tell them to tape it up or anything to go early, if I had the opportunity," Howard said.
Analysis: That could be just a smoke screen for the NBA office so that they know he's healthy when he's serving his suspension. Either way, it sounds like his injury is not an issue that should affect the decision making of Fantasy owners. When healthy -- and not under suspension -- he's a candidate for a breakout season and is a No. 1 forward option.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard left Tuesday night's preseason game against the Chicago Bulls in the third quarter after spraining his left wrist. An MRI Wednesday revealed no further damage to the joint. Howard was on defense when he hurt the wrist while reacting to a pump-fake by Chicago's Ben Gordon. A team spokesperson said Howard would miss the rest of the game and will be listed as day-to-day. When he left the game, Howard was Dallas' top scorer with 19 points. He also had three rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Analysis: The injury likely won't affect Howard going into the season, but a suspension will. He was ejected from an exhibition game earlier this preseason after getting in a fight with Kings C Brad Miller. As a result, Howard will miss the first two games of the season and return Nov. 3 vs. Sacramento. We still expect him to have a breakout season, so draft him in all Fantasy formats even if you may choose to sit him Week 1.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard was suspended Friday for the first two games of the regular season, punishment for a fight with Sacramento center Brad Miller earlier in the week.
Analysis: Howard was ejected from an exhibition Tuesday against the Kings after delivering a forearm to the back of Miller's neck. He also pushed Miller, who had shoved Dallas guard Devin Harris to the ground. Howard won't be eligible to return until the team's third game of the regular season, Nov. 3 vs. Sacramento. He's still expected to be in line for a breakout season and warrants a selection in all Fantasy formats, even if you may choose to sit him in Week 1.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard was ejected from Dallas' 101-99 exhibition win over the Kings on Tuesday night for elbowing Brad Miller in the back of the neck. He also pushed Miller, who had shoved Dallas G Devin Harris to the ground.
Analysis: Howard's antics on Tuesday night might warrant a suspension that could affect the start of his regular season. Keep an eye out for any announcement as the week goes on, although Howard's value isn't affected even if he does have to miss a couple of games. If you drafted him, just make sure you have a capable replacement in case he can't go in Fantasy Week 1.
News: Josh Howard scored 18 points on 6-of-8 shooting for Dallas in a preseason loss at Chicago Friday night.
Analysis: Howard, 27, has still not reached his peak, and we expect the Mavericks to feature him more than ever in the 2007-08 season. Draft him as a No. 2 forward in all leagues. By the end of the season, he could be putting up No. 1 numbers.
News: Mavericks SF Josh Howard led his team in scoring to open the exhibition season Tuesday. He bucketed 18 points while also chipping in four rebounds, two steals and an assist.
Analysis: Howard, 27, has still not reached his peak, and we expect the Mavericks to feature him more than ever in the 2007-08 season. Consider his numbers just a leaping point and draft him as a No. 2 forward in all leagues. By the end of the season, he could be putting up No. 1 numbers.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard averaged career highs in scoring (18.9 ppg), rebounding (6.8 rpg) and free-throw percentage (82.7 percent) in his fourth NBA season.
Analysis: Howard, 27, has still not reached his peak and we expect the Mavericks to feature him more than ever in the 2007-08 season. Consider his numbers just a leaping point and draft him as a No. 2 forward in all leagues. By the end of the season, he could be putting up No. 1 numbers.
News: It's easy to see why Josh Howard is vital to the Mavs' success. The lanky 6-foot-7 small forward guards everyone from Steve Nash to Kevin Garnett, is a dynamic scorer and hard-nosed rebounder. Dallas is 46-5 when Howard scores 15 points or more this season and 30-3 when he scores 20 or more. He turned his right ankle Friday at Denver and sat out the next night against Portland. Swelling was minimal and he returned to the lineup Monday against the L.A. Clippers. "I was almost getting over the hump, and then (I) tweak it again," said Howard, who turned the same ankle in the previous week.
Analysis: Howard had 16 points, six rebounds and four assists Monday against the Clippers. It appears safe to get him back in your active lineup.
News: Josh Howard sat out Saturday against Portland nursing a sore right ankle. "Coach sees fit to rest me so I'm going to take his advice," Howard said. Avery Johnson has stressed the importance of getting healthy before the postseason. "I'm always concerned about our mental and physical approach going into the playoffs," Johnson said. "I just want us to be healthy in both areas. Some of it, obviously, you can't control. You can control the mental."
Analysis: With the Mavs looking to stay healthy for the playoffs, Howard may be in line to miss a couple of games in the upcoming week. Keep that in mind when setting your lineup for this all-so-critical week.
News: Josh Howard sprained his ankle Friday at Denver, and his status for Saturday against Portland is unknown.
Analysis: Consider Howard day-to-day and hope he can play Saturday.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard led the way Tuesday with 29 points, one shy of his career high. Howard took 12 shots in the opening quarter and scored 14 points.
Analysis: With Dirk Nowitzki (illness) out, Howard took over. He has been a solid player this year and should continue to do well, with or without Dirk.
News: Howard had 25 points and 10 rebounds, and the Mavericks beat New Orleans 105-89 Tuesday night for their 21st straight victory over the Hornets.
Analysis: Howard has three double-doubles in his past five games after a seven-game stretch without one. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Dirk Nowitzki and Josh Howard each scored 24 points, and the Mavericks hit the 55-win mark for the third straight season by beating the Knicks 92-77 Tuesday night. Howard also added 10 rebounds for the double-double.
Analysis: Howard posted his first double-double since March 1, a span of seven games. That was his longest span with a double-double since an eight-game stretch from Dec. 11-26. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Josh Howard tied his career high with 30 points Friday against Boston. He scored 14 in the first quarter, the 27th time he's had a double-digit period. Sixteen have come in the first quarter.
Analysis: Howard has played outstanding this season and is a quality No. 2 Fantasy forward. Continue to start him in all scoring formats.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard had 24 points, four rebounds and two assists Sunday against the Lakers. Howard is averaging 18.0 points in four March games.
Analysis: Howard has played outstanding this season and is a quality No. 2 Fantasy forward. Continue to start him in all scoring formats.
News: Dallas forward Josh Howard doesn't like missing games. Despite spraining his right ankle Monday for the second time in less than a week, the All-Star small forward was back in the lineup the next game. This time it was the second night of a back-to-back, as Howard scored 17 points (15 by halftime) in 36 minutes Tuesday at Minnesota. He sprained the same ankle on Feb. 22 against Miami and was on the floor Feb. 24 against Denver. Howard was a game-time decision against the Timberwolves, and when it came time for the game, he decided to play. Again.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Howard in the starting lineup. He is a solid No. 2 Fantasy forward.
News: Josh Howard dropped 20 points on the Hawks in Monday's game before leaving in the fourth quarter due to a sprained right ankle.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. He has been playing with soreness in his right ankle and might have simply been rested since the game was out of hand.
News: After just the first half of the season, Mavericks F Josh Howard has posted career highs across the board. He is averaging 19.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists. Howard's talents will be on display in Las Vegas for the All-Star game. It is a much deserving honor for the fourth year forward out of Wake Forest.
Analysis: Howard has improved his numbers across the board every year he has been in the league. It is not known if he will be able to keep up the pace in the second half of the season, but there is no need to bench him in Fantasy leagues for fear of the unknown. He remains a must-start option.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard had 15 points, 11 rebounds and three assists in a win over the Rockets Thursday.
Analysis: Howard's talents will be on display in Las Vegas for the All-Star game. It is a much deserving honor for the fourth year forward out of Wake Forest. Continue to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard had 15 points and eight rebounds against the Bucks on Tuesday.
Analysis: Howard has become a low-end No. 1 Fantasy forward in all scoring formats.
News: NBA leading scorer Carmelo Anthony was picked by commissioner David Stern on Friday as an injury replacement and will make his first All-Star game appearance on Feb. 18 in Las Vegas. Stern also added Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard to the Western Conference team. He needed to replace Houston center Yao Ming and Utah forward Carlos Boozer, who will be unable to play because of injuries.
Analysis: Anthony averages an NBA-high 30.8 points, but wasn't voted in by the fans and then wasn't chosen as a reserve by West coaches. He was undoubtedly hurt by missing 15 games when Stern suspended him for his role in the brawl at Madison Square Garden in December. Howard also is a first-time All-Star, giving the team with the NBA's best record two players in the game. Phoenix and San Antonio, the Mavericks' closest pursuers, each have multiple All-Stars. Howard is averaging 19.6 points and 7.3 rebounds. Both are obviously top-notch Fantasy options in all leagues and will be on display next weekend.
News: Josh Howard returned to the lineup Saturday against Minnesota after missing two games because of the birth of his son and scored a team-high tying 22 points while adding 10 boards.
Analysis: Dallas improved to 18-2 when he scores at least 20 this season (19-0 in 2005-06) and 7-1 when he has a double-double (12-0 in 2005-06). Howard is Dallas' second-leading scorer (19.4 points) and third-leading rebounder (7.2). When active, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard returned to the team's starting lineup Saturday against the Timberwolves after missing the two previous games awaiting the birth of his first child.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not be hesitant to insert Howard back into active Fantasy lineups for the upcoming scoring period (Feb. 5-11). Howard is Dallas' second-leading scorer (19.4 points) and third-leading rebounder (7.2). When active, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Josh Howard has missed the last two games awaiting the birth of his first child. He could be back Saturday against Minnesota.
Analysis: It is a 50-50 chance he will play at this time. Howard is Dallas' second-leading scorer (19.4 points) and third-leading rebounder (7.2). When active, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Mavericks G Josh Howard was not with the team for the second straight game Wednesday awaiting the birth of his first child.
Analysis: The team was expecting Howard back in the lineup Wednesday, but gave no indication after the game on if Howard will return Friday against the Timberwolves. It is a 50-50 chance he will play at this time. Howard is Dallas' second-leading scorer (19.4 points) and third-leading rebounder (7.2). When active, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard missed Tuesday night's game against the Seattle SuperSonics for the birth of his first child, Dallas coach Avery Johnson said. Johnson said Howard was expected to rejoin the team on Wednesday against Memphis. Howard is Dallas' second-leading scorer (19.4 points) and third-leading rebounder (7.2).
Analysis: It appears safe to get Howard back in your lineup in daily leagues and expect his standout season to continue.
News: Josh Howard missed his first 10 shots Thursday at Chicago and finished 4-for-20. With just nine points, he failed to score in double figures for the first time since Dec. 11 at Utah.
Analysis: Despite the small setback, it takes a talented player to be given 20 shots in an NBA game. He remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Dirk Nowitzki and Josh Howard, Dallas' top two scorers, had poor shooting games Thursday against the Bulls. Nowitzki was 4-for-16 and Howard was 1-for-15 entering the fourth quarter. They finally got it going in the fourth. Howard finished 4-for-20 and Nowitzki was 7-for-22. Dallas shot 31.2 percent, its worst of the season.
Analysis: Howard finished the game with nine points, eight rebounds and one assist. It was the first time that Howard was held under 10 points since Dec. 11. That was a streak of 22 games Howard scored in double-figures. Howard could earn a spot as a Western Conference reserve in the All-Star game and that should speak volumes about his Fantasy value. He remains a must-start option.
News: Dallas F Josh Howard scored 25 points with nine rebounds Sunday at Miami. He also added three assists and two steals.
Analysis: Howard came into the game averaging 19.6 ppg and 7.2 rpg. Those averages went up a bit and he should continue to enjoy this kind of success down the line.
News: Josh Howard finished with game highs of 29 points and 11 rebounds Thursday in the win over the Lakers, two nights after netting 28 points against Houston. Dallas is 24-3 when he scores at least 15 and 15-2 at the 20-point plateau. The Mavericks are also 6-1 when he records a double-double.
Analysis: Over the past 14 games, he's averaging 9.6 rebounds. He also scored 10 points in the first quarter and 11 in the third. He's reached at least 10 in the first quarter 21 times. He remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Josh Howard's layup with 0.9 seconds left lifted the Mavericks to an improbable 97-96 Sunday afternoon win at Toronto. Jason Terry and Howard hooked up on the winning basket, running a play that began with 6.5 seconds remaining. With two Raptors going at Dirk Nowitzki, Howard slipped to the basket and avoided block attempts by T.J. Ford and Bosh. Howard had 14 points, but the game-winner gave him his only points of the second half.
Analysis: The Mavs continue to lobby hard for Howard to make the All-Star game, but he is currently eighth among the votes for forwards in the Western Conference. He could make the team as a reserve, but it is unlikely he will be a starter. Still, with his 19.0 points and 7.1 rebounds per game averages, he remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard brought down eight rebounds in Sunday's win at Toronto. He finished with 14 points off 5-for-17 from the field and he also added five assists and three steals.
Analysis: He last scored under 10 points on Dec. 11 and has emerged as a must-start Fantasy stud thanks to his contributions in all the major categories. He's an excellent Rotisserie forward.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard shot 7-of-19 from the field on Friday against the Pacers and finished the game with 15 points and eight rebounds.
Analysis: Howard continues his All-Star-like season and remains a must-start Fantasy option. He last scored under 10 points on Dec. 11 and has reeled off 17 straight games scoring in double-figures.
News: The Mavs are lobbying hard for Josh Howard to make the Western Conference All-Star team. Every chance he gets, Avery Johnson makes sure he links "Howard" and "All-Star Game" in the same sentence. "If you're really just watching the game and you're seeing what he's doing night in and night out, he should be on the (All-Star) team," Johnson said. "He's been running the team better and reading defenses." Howard had 25 points and 11 rebounds in Thursday's win over the Pacers.
Analysis: Howard deserves a spot on the All-Star team with is 19.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game averages. If it weren't for a guy named Dirk Nowitzki, Howard would be the talk of Dallas right now. He remains a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Josh Howard earned his second straight Player of the Week award, the first time that's happened to a Maverick. He still lost out to Kobe Bryant as December's Player of the Month. Howard averaged 21.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists from Dec. 25-31. He scored 21 Tuesday and is averaging 20.6 over the last 18 games.
Analysis: Howard is making a strong case to be a part of the West All-Star team this season. He remains a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Josh Howard had 21 points and nine rebounds, and the Dallas Mavericks extended their winning streak to 11 games with a 112-88 victory over the Seattle SuperSonics on Tuesday.
Analysis: Howard is making a strong case to be a part of the West All-Star team this season. He remains a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: Dirk Nowitzki is likely headed for his sixth straight All-Star appearance, and this season he could have Dallas Mavericks teammate Josh Howard along as a sidekick. Howard scored 27 points as the Mavericks stretched their winning streak to seven games with a 97-84 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday. Howard, last week's Western Conference player of the week, went 10-for-19 from the field and grabbed eight rebounds. Dallas is 9-1 this season when Howard scores 20 or more points. "No doubt he's an All-Star," teammate Greg Buckner said. "He's doing everything, playing the best ball on our team. We know Dirk's an All-Star. We'd like to have two. We think we're the best team in the league."
Analysis: Howard is averaging 20.8 points over the last 14 games. If you haven't put Howard into your active Fantasy lineup, we have no idea what you are waiting for. Howard is playing some of the best basketball in the league right now.
News: In the four games leading up to Wednesday at Seattle, Josh Howard has flourished. The starting small forward averaged 23.8 points and 5.3 rebounds, and shot 34-of-61 (54 percent) during the stretch. One of the reasons for his improved play, according to Avery Johnson, is Howard initiating the offense more. "He's passed the ball much better this year than he did last year," Johnson said. "He's real cerebral this year. "He really is beating teams with his brain. If the shot's there, he takes it. If it's not there, he moves it. He's setting screens, and he's running the offense."
Analysis: Howard didn't have too bad of a game on Wednesday. He had 15 points, six rebounds and four assists. He has been playing excellent basketball as of late and should be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News: Josh Howard scored a career-high tying 30 points Saturday against while attempting a career-high 24 shots. On Dec. 5 at New Jersey, Howard set his previous career-high of 20 field goal attempts. He has scored 20-plus points in four of the past six games and five times overall this season (Mavs 4-1 mark).
Analysis: After missing eight games with a sprained ankle, Howard has been playing lights out. Start Howard in all Fantasy formats.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard got off to a quick start on Thursday scoring 12 points in the first half against the Pistons. The only problem is that he went scoreless in the second half and the Mavs lost to the Pistons. Howard did grab 12 rebounds in the loss.
Analysis: After missing eight games with a sprained ankle, Howard has now scored in double-figures in seven of eight games. Start Howard in all Fantasy formats.
News: Josh Howard scored 23 points to help lead Dallas past New Jersey 92-75 Tuesday night. On Tuesday, he and Dirk Nowitzki scored all of the Mavericks' points in a 13-4 run midway through the fourth quarter that gave them an 88-71 lead with 3:10 left.
Analysis: Howard has developed into the perfect complement to Nowitzki, and the fourth-year swingman had led or co-led Dallas in scoring in three of the last four games. Start Howard in all Fantasy formats.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard scored 26 points off 8-for-15 shooting Wednesday vs. Toronto. He also added five rebounds, an assist and a block.
Analysis: He had a great game despite getting into foul trouble. When he's healthy, he provides nice scoring numbers.
News: Mavericks F Josh Howard (ankle) was able to play 17 minutes Friday at San Antonio. He shot 4-for-9 from the floor and scored 12 points.
Analysis: Howard should be healthy enough to activate once again in larger leagues. He's a nice scorer off the bench and should be useful in leagues of 12-plus teams.
News: The Fort Worth Star Telegram reports that Josh Howard (sprained ankle) is expected to practice this week and he might be able to play at San Antonio on Friday.
Analysis: Howard should still remain reserved throughout the weekend. When he's healthy, he provides nice scoring numbers.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard missed his sixth consecutive game on Saturday with a sprained left ankle. Coach Avery Johnson expects Howard to begin running and practicing next week.
Analysis: This is good news for Howard owners. He probably won't play in the Mavs next game and you should keep him reserved until the team announces a date for his return.
News: Josh Howard (sprained left ankle) is expected to return around Nov. 20.
Analysis: He could return Nov. 20 at Charlotte or at home the next night against Washington. Consider Howard no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: The struggling Dallas Mavericks will be without Josh Howard for two weeks because of a sprained left ankle. Howard was hurt Monday night in the second quarter of a 107-104 loss to Golden State that dropped the reigning Western Conference champs to 0-3 for the first time since 1993-94. Howard stayed in Dallas on Tuesday while teammates left for a three-game, six-day road trip. An MRI taken Tuesday showed a second-degree sprain. Greg Buckner will probably replace him in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Howard was Dallas' second-leading scorer last season and among the team's best defenders, capable of covering point guards to power forwards. The two-week time frame means he'll miss at least six games. He could return Nov. 20 at Charlotte or at home the next night against Washington. The native of Winston-Salem, N.C., likely will aim for the game in his home state. Get him reserved and start looking on your waiver wire.
News: The Dallas Mavericks lost forward Josh Howard to a sprained left ankle in the second quarter of Monday night's game against the Golden State Warriors. Howard was hurt midway through the quarter in a collision with Mickael Pietrus.
Analysis: He took his own free throws, then was helped to the locker room. Soon after, club officials diagnosed the sprain and said he wouldn't return. Consider him a great start in larger leagues when healthy, but he's questionable for Nov. 8 at the L.A. Clippers.
News: Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard was fined $5,000 by the NBA on Satrurday for shoving San Antonio's Bruce Bowen on Thursday night. The 6-foot-7 Howard knocked down Bowen with a hard shove in the second quarter of the Spurs' 97-91 victory. Howard was called for a flagrant foul, penalty one. On Saturday, the league fined Howard and upgraded the foul to a penalty two. A flagrant foul, penalty two is called for "unnecessary and excessive contact" and carries an automatic ejection, according to NBA rules.
Analysis: Howard went for 20 points, six rebounds and four assists in the Mavs opener on Wednesday. Outside of the flagrant foul, he had a pretty good game. He should be a key part of the Mavs offense this season and games like Wednesday could become a norm. Consider Howard at no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward to start the season.
News: Mavs F Josh Howard, who recently signed a 4-year, $40 million contract extension, played 36 minutes in Thursday's opener against the Spurs. He scored 20 points on 7-of-16 shooting from the field and 5-of-6 from the free-throw line. He also had six rebounds and four assists.
Analysis: Howard was a big part of the Mavericks success during the 2005-2006 season as the team made it all the way to the NBA Finals and looks as though has picked up where he left off. Consider Howard at no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy forward to start the season.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard agreed to a four-year, $40 million contract extension Thursday through the 2010-11 season. Howard will play for $1.6 million this season, the last on his existing contract. Howard said he did not want to test the free-agent market after the season. "I'm glad it's done," Howard said before Dallas' preseason game Thursday night against Milwaukee. "I knew I wanted to stay here as long as I could. Now I want to continue to play hard and get better." Last season, his third in the NBA, Howard averaged a career-high 15.6 points and 6.3 rebounds to help the Mavericks to the most successful season in their history before losing to the Miami Heat in six games in the NBA Finals.
Analysis: Howard was a big part of the Mavericks success during the 2005-2006 season as the team made it all the way to the NBA Finals. He has firmly implanted himself as the team's starting SF for the upcoming season and he has already been drafted in 87 percent of Fantasy leagues. Consider Howard a middle-round pick on Draft Day.
News: Devin Harris is expected to get substantial playing time after playing sparingly against Phoenix on Thursday. Mavs coach Avery Johnson might elect to rest or limit the minutes of Nowitzki, Jason Terry or Josh Howard.
Analysis: Howard's Fantasy value will take a hit for the team's remaining games as they look toward the playoffs.
News: Josh Howard returned Friday vs. Orlando after being out since March 12 with a hamstring injury. He logged 29 minutes, but shot just 3-for-8 from the floor.
Analysis: Howard will see healthy minutes down the stretch, but it will take him another game or two to get back into the swing of things.
News: Howard (hamstring) was on the inactive list for Wednesday's game at Cleveland, as Rawle Marshall got the start in his absence.
Analysis: Howard remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Josh Howard (hamstring) did not play Thursday vs. Golden State.
Analysis: Howard is considered by many to be Dallas' second-best player after Dirk Nowitzki. He's averaging 15.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.2 steals when healthy and is among the club's best defenders. The Mavs are 16-0 when he scores 20 points. Reserve him until further notice.
News: Josh Howard (hamstring) went through non-contact drills Monday according to the Dallas Morning News. According to the Mavericks he will not be available for Tuesday's game, but he will be considered day-to-day after that.
Analysis: Howard is considered by many to be Dallas' second-best player after Dirk Nowitzki. He's averaging 15.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.2 steals when healthy and is among the club's best defenders. The Mavs are 16-0 when he scores 20 points. Reserve him until further notice.
News: The Dallas Mavericks are suddenly less concerned about earning the top seed in the Western Conference. Their focus now is on going into the playoffs healthy. Injuries to starting small forward Josh Howard and backup point guard Devin Harris forced the priority change. Both tried to come back and instead got hurt again, prompting team officials to decide Tuesday to let the players rest until the last few weeks of the regular season. "Both of those guys are out indefinitely," coach Avery Johnson said before facing the Cleveland Cavaliers. "I trusted some different situations (before), but now I'll bring them back when I want to."
Analysis: Howard has been hobbled by a strained left hamstring. He missed four games, then left after playing 12 minutes Sunday night in Sacramento. Howard is considered by many to be Dallas' second-best player after Dirk Nowitzki. He's averaging 15.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.2 steals, and is among the club's best defenders. The Mavs are 16-0 when he scores 20 points. Reserve him until further notice.
News: Forward Josh Howard returned to the Dallas Mavericks' starting lineup Sunday night after missing four games with a strained hamstring, but sat out the second half when the injury flared up again. Howard was back in the starting lineup for the Western Conference leaders for the first time since March 3, when he aggravated his hamstring injury in a game against Charlotte.
Analysis: The third-year pro is Dallas' third-leading scorer, averaging 15.8 points - but he went 1-for-6 in the first half against Sacramento before sitting out the second half. He's a shaky start because of the uncertainty of his injury, but a great Fantasy player when healthy.
News: Josh Howard (ankle) was able to return to action on Thursday at San Antonio. He finished with 15 points on 7-for-13 from the floor.
Analysis: Howard had missed eight games earlier in the season with the same injury. Be wary of his ankle's frail status these days, but continue to start him while he's able to play.
News: Mavericks forward Josh Howard missed Saturday's game against the Toronto Raptors because of a sprained right ankle. Howard, averaging 16 points and the team's third-leading scorer, was injured during the first quarter of Thursday night's victory over Memphis. Sixth man Jerry Stackhouse started in his place Saturday. Coach Avery Johnson said Howard could be ready for light physical activity Sunday. "He'd be in the danger area if he played today," Johnson said. "It's not that bad, but we don't want it to get worse."
Analysis: This the same ankle that he sprained earlier in the season, which resulted in him missing eight games. Consider him day-to-day for the time being.
News: According to the Dallas Morning News, Josh Howard isn't expected to miss much time with his ankle sprain. Howard was forced to leave Thursday night's game vs. Memphis early after having his ankle stepped on by teammate Keith Van Horn.
Analysis: This the same ankle that he sprained earlier in the season, which resulted in him missing eight games. Consider him day-to-day for the time being.
News: Josh Howard was forced to leave Thursday night's game vs. Memphis early after having his ankle stepped on by teammate Keith Van Horn.
Analysis: Howard had X-rays taken, but the results are not yet available. Consider Howard questionable for Feb. 25 vs. Toronto.
News: Josh Howard scored a team-high 26 points in 36 minutes without a turnover against Washington on Wednesday. Dallas improved to 15-0 when he scores at least 20.
Analysis: Howard heads into the All-Star break averaging 17.0 ppg over his last five games. He's an excellent start in all leagues and formats.
News: Josh Howard scored 10 of his 14 points in the first quarter against new York. He has scored at least 10 in a quarter nine times this season.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 16.4 ppg over his last five games and he makes an excellent start in all formats.
News: Josh Howard had 22 points and was one of the Dallas defenders who helped frustrate Kobe Bryant most of the game, and the Mavericks beat the Los Angeles Lakers 102-87 Tuesday night for their NBA-best 12th straight victory.
Analysis: Howard is once again an excellent option as Fantasy forward.
News: Josh Howard scored a game-high 23 points against Seattle. He's led Dallas in scoring four straight games and nine times this season after doing so seven times in all of 2004-05.
Analysis: The Mavs are 13-0 when he scores at least 20. Over the past four games, Howard is averaging 22 points on 56.4 percent shooting.
News: Josh Howard scored a game-high 24 points against Utah on 8-of-13 from both the floor and the line. In the four games prior, he averaged 10.3 points on 38-percent shooting and attempted a total of five free throws. The 13 free throws ties his career-high.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 13 points over his last five contests to go along with 5.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists. Howard has also been active on defense, averaging 1.4 steals during the same span.
News: Josh Howard scored 13 points on Friday vs. Golden State. He also added two rebounds and four assists.
Analysis: Howard's once again an excellent option as Fantasy forward now that he's healthy.
News: Josh Howard scored 14 points and brought down 13 rebounds on Thursday at Sacramento. He also added six assists.
Analysis: Howard played all but one minute of the game. He's once again an excellent option as Fantasy forward now that he's healthy.
News: Josh Howard has averaged 29.4 minutes and 14.6 ppg since coming back from a sprained ankle. He's also averaging 6.6 rebounds, including an 18-board performance last week.
Analysis: Howard seems to be fully recovered and is once again a viable option as a Fantasy forward. Look to add him if he was dropped in your league.
News: Josh Howard returned to action from a sprained ankle on Monday vs. the Lakers but only had four points in 12 minutes.
Analysis: Don't activate him until he has a big game, but it's nice to see him return.
News: According to reports, Josh Howard (ankle) will miss most of the first three weeks of December.
Analysis: Howard should be reserved in Fantasy leagues until he comes back and proves that his ankle is 100 percent.
News: Dallas' Josh Howard will be out for at least two games, and possibly longer. He stayed behind to rehabilitate his badly sprained right ankle in Dallas while the Mavs left for a two-game road trip. He's scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday so his status should become clearer when the results are announced.
Analysis: Howard should be reserved in Fantasy leagues until he comes back and proves that his ankle is 100 percent. His earliest possible return date is Dec 1 vs. the Spurs, but that seems to be very optimistic. Keith Van Horn, Devin Harris, Marquis Daniels and eventually Jerry Stackhouse should see increased value if Howard misses an extended period of time.
News: Howard scored 16 points and added 11 rebounds in 51 minutes in Tuesday's double-overtime win at Phoenix.
Analysis: Double-overtime in the opener is always very welcome for Fantasy owners looking to get off to a big start.
News: Josh Howard had 23 points and nine rebounds in 32 minutes during Monday's game against the Grizzlies. He shot 9-for-15 from the court and had two steals.
Analysis: Howard has improved his numbers from his rookie season in scoring (12.5 PPG), rebounding (6.4 RPG) and steals (1.6 SPG).
News: Josh Howard shot 9-for-13 from the floor and 5-for-6 from the line in Monday's game against the Pistons. He finished with 24 points, six rebounds and three steals.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 12.6 PPG and 6.4 RPG this season. Dallas is slated for three games in Week 23 and six in Week 24.
News: Josh Howard shot 7-for-13 from the floor and finished with 21 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks in Thhursday's game against the Blazers.
Analysis: Howard is averaging 12.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG and 1.6 BPG in March. Dallas is slated for four games in Weeks 21 and 22.
News: Howard hit 7-of-14 shots in Sunday's game at Minnesota to finish with 15 points. He had been nursing a sprained left ankle which slowed him in Friday's game.
Analysis: Howard was also able to post four rebounds, two steals and a blocked shot. It is safe to leave him in the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues.
News: Howard missed all four of his shots from the floor in Sunday's game at Houston to finish with a mere one point. He was able to chip in with seven rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: The Mavericks struggled as a whole on Sunday with Dirk Nowitzki (knee) and Michael Finley (calf) out of action. Look for Howard to rebound on Monday against Toronto.
News: Howard scored a career-high 30 points in Thursday's win at Phoenix to go along with eight rebounds and four steals.
Analysis: Howard appears to be fully recovered from a wrist injury which slowed him earlier in the month.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard had X-rays on his left wrist after Wednesday's game, and the tests showed no structural damage.
Analysis: Howard fell on the wrist in Tuesday's game against Miami, and he was largely ineffective against the Hornets. He is not expected to miss Friday's game at Indiana.
News: Howard (back) was able to play in Tuesday's game against the Heat. He finished with 11 points in 28 minutes.
Analysis: Keep Howard reserved at least one more game to allow him to prove his health.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard (back) has made improvement and could return to action Tuesday against Miami. "He's still experiencing too much pain," interim coach Avery Johnson added.
Analysis: Allow Howard some time to get back into game-shape before deciding to activate him. If somebody gave up on Howard and released him recently, grab him and stash him on your reserves.
News: Josh Howard (back) did not play in Saturday's game against the Sixers. He remains day to day
Analysis: Howard has been limited to just seven minutes in the Mavericks past four games. He is a risky option in Week 14 because of the uncertainty of his injury.
News: Josh Howard (back) did not play in Wednesday's game against the Blazers. He remains day to day.
Analysis: Howard has been limited to just seven minutes in the Mavericks past three games. He's currently listed as questionable for Saturday's game against the Sixers.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports the Mavericks are optimistic that Josh Howard, who missed Monday's game with back spasms, will be able to play against the Trail Blazers on Wednesday.
Analysis: Allan Henderson will see fewer minutes if Howard returns to action. It's a wise idea to keep Howard on your reserves for a game or two, so he can get back into game-shape.
News: Howard (back spasms) missed Monday's game at L.A. Clippers.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. Jerry Stackhouse slid into the starting lineup in his absence.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard left Sunday's game with back spasms and is listed as day-to-day. He's questionable for Monday's game in Los Angeles against the Clippers. Howard appeared to overextend in the first quarter when he went up for a shot and came down awkwardly. He will be re-evaluated on Monday and is a game-time decision. "When Josh is not here, we only have seven guys in the rotation, especially when we can't use Shawn [Bradley] because of matchup problems," interim coach Avery Johnson said. "We hope he can get some treatment and be able to play by 7:30 p.m. Pacific time."
Analysis: Allan Henderson is expected to see more playing time if Howard is unable to go. He is worth consideration in daily-lineup leagues if Howard is sidelined.
News: Howard left Sunday's game against Denver in the first quarter due to back spasms.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. Keep him reserved for the upcoming week if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Howard (upper respiratory infection) was able to play in Tuesday's game against the Wizards.
Analysis: Howard finished with 10 points on 3-of-5 shooting. It appears safe to get him back into the active lineup in daily leagues.
News: The Dallas Morning New reports Josh Howard (repiratory) played basketball Saturday for the first time after a week in which his head felt like it was the size of a basketball. "He lost eight pounds," owner Mark Cuban said, "which is about 40 percent of his body mass." Howard returned to practice on Sunday and may be available Tuesday against Washington.
Analysis: Dallas is slated for four games in Week 12, so Howard should be able to play in at least three of those.
News: Howard (upper respiratory infection) did not play in Saturday's game against the Nets. He remains day to day.
Analysis: Dallas is scheduled for four games in Week 12, but Howard is a gamble now. He's missed three in a row now.
News: Josh Howard (respiratory) was out of action for Friday's contest against the Spurs. He missed the prior game as well.
Analysis: With Dallas so hurt with injuries, Jerry Stackhouse picked up the slack offensively. Howard is uncertain for Saturday's game with the Nets.
News: Howard (upper respiratory infection) did not play in Wednesday's game against the Rockets. He is day to day.
Analysis: Darrell Armstrong replaced Howard in the starting lineup. Howard is questionable for Friday's game against the Spurs.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Howard was unable to practice on Tuesday due to the flu.
Analysis: Howard was limited to 11 minutes on Sunday and is considered day to day.
News: Howard shot 10-for-16 from the floor and 4-for-5 from the line in Sunday's matchup with Milwaukee. He scored 25 points with 13 rebounds.
Analysis: Howard's point and rebounding totals were his second-highest totals of the season. Continue using him as a second or third Fantasy forward.
News: Howard had 26 points and 16 rebounds in Tuesday's game against the Knicks. He shot 7-for-17 from the floor and 12-for-13 from the line.
Analysis: The 26 points and 16 boards were both season-highs for Howard. He remains a quality No. 2 Fantasy forward.
News: Howard set career-highs with 26 points and 16 rebounds in Tuesday's win at New York.
Analysis: Howard has emerged as a fantastic No. 3 Fantasy forward in most formats this season.
News: Howard scored 13 points with 12 rebounds in Tuesday's game against the Timberwolves. He shot 4-for-14 from the floor with two steals and two 3-pointers.
Analysis: Howard is a solid No. 3 Fantasy forward. He has three 20-point games and six double-digit rebounding games this season.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard twisted his left ankle in the first quarter of Tuesday's game against Orlando.
Analysis: Howard is not listed on the injury list at this time, so he is expected to play in Thursday's game at Miami.
News: Howard struggled from the floor in Tuesday's game at Orlando, missing all eight of his shot attempts. He finished with four points and 11 rebounds.
Analysis: Howard also left briefly after rolling his ankle, but he was able to return.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Josh Howard (hamstring) will be on the Mavericks' playoff roster. "We'll nurse him through it," coach Don Nelson said. "We expect he'll be able to play at a real high level every game."
Analysis: Howard will see big minutes against Sacramento, barring any setbacks.
News: Josh Howard (hamstring) will be a gametime decision for Tuesday's game against Memphis, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Analysis: Howard has battled the injury for the last few weeks.
News: Howard (hamstring) was in the lineup for Thursday's game. He scored 12 points and added eight rebounds in 32 minutes.
Analysis: It appears safe to get the outstanding rookie back into the active lineup in leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard sat out the second half of Tuesday's win over Seattle because he couldn't loosen up his hamstring. He finished with four points and three rebounds in 15 minutes.
Analysis: Howard is listed as day to day, but he doesn't expect to miss any more playing time due to the injury.
News: Josh Howard (hamstring) was in the lineup for Saturday's game. He scored 14 points and added eight assists.
Analysis: It appears safe to get the impressive rookie back into the active lineup.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Josh Howard sat out the second half of Thursday's win over Sacramento with a sore right hamstring.
Analysis: The rookie said he was fine after the game and should be ready for Saturday's game against Phoenix.
News: Howard (mouth) was able to play on Wednesday. He played 17 minutes and had five points and six rebounds.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Howard back into the lineup in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Josh Howard (mouth) is expected to return Wednesday against Atlanta.
Analysis: Howard is not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Josh Howard is listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against Atlanta.
Analysis: Howard is not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Josh Howard (mouth) is expected to play Wednesday at Atlanta.
Analysis: Howard is not a recommended starter on Fantasy teams.
News: Howard (mouth) missed Saturday's game.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in larger Fantasy leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Howard suffered a cut lip in the second quarter of Thursday's game, compliments of an inadvertent elbow from Sacramento's Peja Stojakovic. He received nine stitches in his lower lip at halftime and did not return.
Analysis: Howard is listed as day to day.
News: Howard (groin) was in the lineup for Wednesday's game. He scored four points and added seven rebounds in 21 minutes.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Howard back into the active lineup in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Howard (strained groin) missed Tuesday's game with Seattle.
Analysis: Howard remains day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues which allow daily moves.
News: According to the Seattle Times, Josh Howard (groin) is questionable for Tuesday's game against Seattle.
Analysis: The rookie should be reserved on Fantasy teams.
News: Howard missed Saturday's game against Portland due to a strained right groin.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all larger Fantasy leagues until he can officially return to the lineup.
News: According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Josh Howard (hamstring) is close to regaining his conditioning "It's almost back," he said. "It's just the basketball part now."
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to reserve Howard until he can string together a few strong games.
News: Howard (hamstring) scored two points to go with one rebound in only seven minutes of action Friday at Denver.
Analysis: Howard should remain reserved in larger keeper leagues.
News: According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Josh Howard accompanied the team to Denver and is expected to be gametime decision for Friday's game. "Once I get my wind back, I'll be back to normal," Howard said. "I have to get back in game-mode, but other than that, I've just got to get my wind back."
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to reserve Howard until he gets back to the court at full strength.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Howard (hamstring) jogged Sunday for the first time since suffering the injury.
Analysis: There is no definitive date for Howard's return, so Fantasy owners should keep him reserved.
News: According to the Dallas Morning News, the MRI on Howard’s left hamstring revealed no further damage beyond a strain. However, he is expected to miss seven to 10 days.
Analysis: Tony Delk started in Howard’s spot on Monday. Marquis Daniels and Travis Best also saw extended playing time.
News: Howard (hamstring) missed Monday's game at Utah.
Analysis: Keep Howard reserved until he can return to the lineup and play at least two games to prove his health.
News: According to the Salt Lake Deseret News, Howard (hamstring) is out for Monday's game at Utah.
Analysis: Michael Finley's numbers should benefit from Howard's absence.
News: According to the Dallas Morning News, Howard will remain in the starting lineup even when Michael Finley returns from a toe injury. "I'm here to tell you, Mavs fans, that we got a player in that kid," coach DOn Nelson said. "He's definitely carved his way into the rotation. Even when Mike comes back, he's going to be on the floor somewhere."
Analysis: Nelson envisions a starting five of Howard, Finley, Dirk Nowitzki, Antoine Walker and Steve Nash in the coming weeks.
News: Howard, starting in place of Michael Finley (toe), scored 17 points and grabbed 13 rebounds at the Lakers Friday. The rookie also had three assists.
Analysis: Howard has impressed the Dallas staff as the season has progressed and obviously this was a huge game. Expect him to see more playing time as a result.
News: Howard (ankle) was back in action on Wednesday, but he was scoreless in six minutes.
Analysis: Howard is best used as a reserve in larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Mavericks coach Don Nelson told the Dallas Morning News that Howard (ankle) would be a gametime decision Wednesday in Los Angeles against the Clippers. However, Howard expects to be available.
Analysis: Howard is not worth starting on Fantasy teams.
News: According to the Dallas Morning News, Howard missed Monday's practice with an ankle injury. However, coach Don Nelson said he would have played if there was a game.
Analysis: Howard is not expected to miss any playing time due to the injury.
News: Josh Howard (ankle) was able to return on Wednesday at Washington. He was scoreless in 12 minutes.
Analysis: Howard is not a recommended Fantasy starter in most leagues.
News: According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Howard (ankle) expects to play in Wednesday's game at Washington.
Analysis: Howard is not worth starting on Fantasy teams.
News: Josh Howard (sprained right ankle) missed Monday's game against Miami.
Analysis: Howard is considered day to day. He is not a useful Fantasy player.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Howard had X-rays on his sprained ankle Wednesday that came back negative. He is doubtful for Saturday's game against Utah.
Analysis: Howard has no Fantasy value.
