Dirk & Arenas Return to Action!

Two NBA superstars stepped back on the court this past Wednesday night, and their teams definitely needed their presence.

Earlier on Wednesday, it appeared the Mavs All-star Dirk Nowitzki would not be suiting up against the Warriors. But Dirk was surprisingly back in action against Golden State. Nowitzki had 18 points and 5 boards as his Mavs defeated the Warriors 111-86. His newest teammate, PG Jason Kidd had an impressive 17 assists in the win. Jason Terry led the way with 31 points. A Dallas Morning News article discusses how the Mavericks will need Jason "The Jet" Terry to take off, to give them a playoff shot.

Ironically, an ESPN Sportsnation poll actually had fans voting that the Mavs will be the most likely West Conference team to not make the playoffs (of 3 choices). The other 2 choices were Denver and Golden State.

Also returning on Wednesday was Agent 0, Gilbert Arenas for the Washington Wizards who had been absent since November 16th. Gil's been out a lot longer, and in his absence both Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison made the all star game. Butler had especially stepped his game up. Arenas came back as the Wiz faced the Bucks and put in a 17 point performance, as well as 2 key free throws to give the Wizards a late lead. But it was a name you may have not heard before, Ramond Sessions, who was the difference maker though. Sessions hit a buzzer beater jumper to give the Bucks the 110-109 edge.

According to an AP report, Arenas was ready to go 10 days earlier but a team doctor wouldn't give the go ahead. With Gilbert & Dirk back on the hardwood, both their teams have renewed optimism as we head into the final games of the season, and the playoff race heats up.