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DALLAS (AP) Dallas Mavericks swingman Josh Howard was in the starting lineup against the Toronto Raptors in his season debut Saturday night.

Howard missed all of the preseason and the first five games while recovering from surgery on his left ankle and left wrist on May 22.

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said he doesn't want to set unrealistic expectations for Howard, who has had limited practice time. Carlisle knows it's especially important for Howard to develop chemistry with forward Shawn Marion, acquired from Toronto in a three-team deal in July.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-07-09 1941CST | save this article / add to your favorites list