Dirk Nowitzki injury update: Mavericks star has knee drained again

Dallas Mavericks star power forward Dirk Nowitzki participated in the team's practice on Friday despite having his right knee drained for the second time this month, according to a report from ESPN Dallas.

Nowitzki sat out the Mavericks' preseason game against Barcelona Regal in Spain on Tuesday because of the bothersome knee, and it's believed that should the soreness and swelling continue, arthroscopic surgery might be necessary. The 14-year veteran indicated that he'd like to have a decision made by next week.

"Probably the sooner, the better if we decide [surgery]," said Nowitzki to ESPN Dallas. Dirk emphasized weight training with his legs during the offseason in an attempt to avoid knee problems. "I don't want to wait until October 30th and then have a scope. That's pretty obvious."

Nowitzki is coming off his worst year since his second year in the league, and has never missed more than nine games in a season.

Dallas opens the NBA regular season on Oct. 30 against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center.