Dragic returns from 31-game absence vs. Pistons

Miami Heat point guard Goran Dragic returned from a 31-game absence on Saturday after undergoing a knee procedure in December.

Dragic is expected to play a limited role and will not immediately join the starting rotation.

The Slovenian has appeared in just 14 games this season and hasn't played since Dec. 10 against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Justise Winslow has taken over point guard duties and has flourished in his new role, but the 2015 lottery pick is listed as out for Saturday as he recovers from knee soreness.

Although Dragic returns to an already flooded guard rotation, he's been the Heat's most reliable offensive option through the previous two seasons.

The Heat sit one game behind the Pistons for the final playoff spot with 25 games remaining.

The 32-year-old is averaging 15.3 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 29.1 minutes per game.