[Thespiralgoeson]

Howard, recovering from a strained left hamstring, said he's going to practice with the team Monday in Detroit. Assuming all goes well, he could be in uniform Tuesday against the Pistons.

"We'll see where it goes," Johnson said. "But Josh is looking really good."
Said Howard: "It stinks to be sitting. There's definitely a light at the end of the tunnel."

The Mavericks have numerous players who are from areas within driving distance of Atlanta. That led to the team needing a combined 218 tickets.

The friends and family were part of the Hawks' first sellout since opening night against the Los Angeles Lakers.