Dirk Nowitzki

F, Dallas Mavericks

Coach Rick Carlisle said Monday he believes Dirk Nowitzki (ankle) will return sometime this month.

Carlisle said Dirk is doing everything he can, but still knows it's not the same as going out on the court during a real NBA game. While the return is coming, it could still be a few weeks away. Dirk had a great fantasy season in 2017-18, but with the additions of Luka Doncic and DeAndre Jordan, it's very unlikely he repeats that season. Given his age and lengthy absence, there's also a high probability of him starting out slow and on a minutes restriction. You don't need to pick him up at least until we have a date for the return.

Source: Brad Townsend on Twitter