Howard still gimping around

NEW ORLEANS -- But he's going to start. At least, that's the early game plan.

Coach Rick Carlisle said he had not heard anything to the contrary from his medical staff.

Howard was wearing a big ace bandage on his left ankle while walking around the locker room with a noticeable limp. He was wincing and favoring the ankle throughout Wednesday's win over San Antonio. It didn't stop him from scoring 29 points.

The Mavericks are looking for back-to-back wins over Western Conference playoff teams for the first time this season. We'll keep you up to date with all the action and a few little fun tidbits from Nawlins.

--Eddie Sefko