Mavericks' Nerlens Noel: Will not play Friday vs. Nets

Noel won't play in Friday's game against the Nets due to a sore left knee, Dwain Price of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Analysis:

Coach Rick Carlisle downplayed Noel's knee issue, stating that the injury isn't serious and that the center will be viewed as day-to-day going forward. With the Mavericks kicking off a home back-to-back set Friday, it's possible the team is just exercising caution by holding out Noel, who could be cleared to play Saturday against the Suns. In his absence Friday, look for Salah Mejri and Dwight Powell to see added time off the bench behind starting center Dirk Nowitzki.