The Lakers are optimistic that Dwight Howard will be available sooner than later.

With that being said, Dwight says do not expect him back until he feels in his mind he is 100%.

“I’m still trying to regain strength,” Howard told the Lakers’ team website. “I’m not playing until I’m 100 percent. Just because I’m doing drills with the team or running up and down, it doesn’t mean I’m ready to play in a game. There’s a difference between running up and down and being actually out there battling. When I’m 100 percent and able to go, then I’ll go.”