As they have struggled at or near the bottom of the Western Conference all season, the Mavericks have learned that they have a lot of interesting pieces on their roster that haven't fit together very well or been productive.
When they come back after the 10-day All-Star break, they'll have a chance to see another player from whom they need to get answers.
Coach Rick Carlisle said he expects center Nerlens Noel to return to practice and game action when the team reconvenes next week in Los Angeles, where they start the stretch drive on Feb. 23 against the Lakers.