WASHINGTON (AP) -Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas took another step toward a possible return from knee surgery this season by taking part in non-contact drills during practice Monday.
Injured center Brendan Haywood, working his way back from a torn wrist ligament, also took part in the drills.
“We had two guys that were able to participate that haven’t been able to in the past,” interim coach Ed Tapscott said. “Both Brendan and Gilbert did some shooting and some running up and down the floor, so it was great to see those guys out there.”
Neither has played this season and no timetable has been set for either to play – or even practice full-contact – although the Wizards have been expecting both to suit up at some point this season.
“I’m getting better and just waiting for my time,” Haywood said. “Gradually I’ve been shooting, and the less and less restriction I feel, the more I shoot. It felt strange at first, but it feels natural now. There’s still a little bit of swelling and it doesn’t bend as good as I need it to in order to play NBA defense.”
ve the Wizards any return on his new six-year, $111 million contract, did not speak to reporters after practice.
“My main thing is getting the guys healthy for next year,” team co-captain Antawn Jamison said. “This year is what it is. It would be an added bonus if Gilbert or Brendan can come back this year just to get a few games under their belts, but it’s about the future of the organization.”
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