Pacers' Doug McDermott: Returns to practice

Coach Rick Carlisle said McDermott (calf) participated in Friday's practice and is "getting close" to a return, Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star reports.

McDermott has missed Indiana's last eight contests due to a right calf strain. However, the veteran forward's return to practice is a good sign toward his availability against the Nets on Saturday. McDermott's official status should be released Friday night.