Hawks' Dwight Howard: Will play Friday against Hornets

Howard (quad) will play in Friday's game against the Hornets, Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Analysis:

Howard appears to have recovered effectively after only being forced to miss just one game after suffering a left quad contusion on Tuesday. His return will send Mike Muscala, who posted 15 points and five rebounds in his place Wednesday against the Bucks, back to the bench where he has still managed to be effective this season.