Knicks' Joakim Noah: Practices Thursday, expected to play Friday

Noah (illness) returned to practice Thursday and has been upgraded to probable for Friday's matchup with the Hornets, Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News reports.

Analysis:

The veteran big man missed Tuesday's matchup with the Trail Blazers due to an illness, but the added downtime has allowed him to return to practice. It appears that Noah will be able to give it a go Friday, but owners should look for further confirmation on his status closer to tip-off.