Wizards' Gortat rejoins team after tending to family matter

After missing the Washington Wizards' last three games, "The Polish Hammer" is back in the nation's capital.

Marcin Gortat left the team to be with his mother, who was recently hospitalized in his home country of Poland, but attended Wednesday's shootaround.

The 31-year-old pivot may be ready to play against the Houston Rockets, reports CSN Mid-Atlantic's J. Michael.

"It's not easy to go back to Europe during the season and then stay over there for three nights and then fly back here," he said.

"Obviously, I wish it was a different reason I left to Poland. I'm glad my mom is doing a little bit better. She still needs a lot of rehab and right now I'm anxious to get back to the game."

In his absence, back-up center Ryan Hollins filled in, averaging two points and 3.3 rebounds.

Gortat himself has put together averages of 12 points, 8.7 boards, and 1.2 blocks in 16 games.