Pekovic plays 1st game since mid-November in loss to Mavs

Nikola Pekovic didn't look like someone who was sidelined for over two months with various injuries. 

Pekovic returned to the Minnesota Timberwolves' lineup Wednesday, scoring 14 points and hauling in four rebounds in 23 minutes off the bench in a 98-75 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. 

It was the center's first game since Nov. 15 after suffering wrist and ankle injuries. 

Gorgui Dieng received the start at center once again, putting up six points and adding seven rebounds in the loss. Dieng slid into a starting role once Pekovic went down and has done a solid job since. 

Pekovic will likely remain on a minutes restriction for the next few games at least, but is a good bet to get his starting job back soon.