Juwan Howard debuts at practice

Juwan Howard’s second tour with the Mavericks began Thursday during a get-to-know-us-again practice on the campus of Georgia Tech.

It shouldn’t take too long to get the 14-year vet up to speed, and don’t be surprised if he plays Friday night against the Hawks. “I’m ready,” Howard said. Basketball is basketball, and other than learning the terminology of Dallas’ system, Howard’s initiation figures to be smooth and painless.

He’s already clear on his role, and it goes beyond just supplying needed frontline depth.

“It’s been proven over and over in this league that veterans help you win games,” he said. “Veterans are the ones that help you win championships. Veterans put you in position to have an opportunity to make the playoffs.

“I’m here to add some veteran leadership, bring a workmanlike attitude in practice and in games, play hard and help the team in whatever fashion I can.”

Read more of the happenings today in the Mavs notebook at mavs.com.