Report: Howard returning to Washington to begin on-court work

Washington Wizards center Dwight Howard appears to be inching closer to a return.

The eight-time All-Star will head back to Washington on Wednesday to start on-court work with the club, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Howard has been rehabbing in Atlanta since undergoing spine surgery in late November. The 33-year-old has battled health issues all season while sitting out since Nov. 18. Howard missed the Wizards' training camp and the first seven games of the regular season.

The three-time Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 12.8 points and 9.2 boards per contest through nine appearances this season. Howard signed a two-year, $10-million deal this past summer with the Wizards. However, he can opt out of his contract after the 2018-19 season.

Washington (24-34) sits 11th in the Eastern Conference and three games back of the final playoff spot.