76ers' Nerlens Noel: Able to perform solo on-court drills

Noel (knee) was able to perform solo on-court drills Friday, Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Analysis:

Noel's progression from multiple issues with his right leg seems to be going well, but he's still awaiting clearance for contact drills. Even when that permission is granted, he still may need another week or so before being allowed to play in a game. Regardless of when he returns, the Sixers will undoubtedly play it safe and ease him back into action behind Joel Embiid and Jahlil Okafor.