What happened: The Utah Jazz announced center Jusuf Nurkic has begun participating in on-court activities after being re-evaluated by the team's medical staff. Nurkic sustained a second toe injury to his right foot during an Oct. 4 preseason matchup. He remains sidelined for game competition while progressing through individual drills.

Why it matters: Utah has felt his absence inside during a difficult opening stretch, losing six straight games to fall to 1-7. Restoring the veteran center to the rotation provides needed interior presence and rebounding for a rebuilding frontcourt.

What to watch: Utah visits Dallas on Friday night for an NBA Cup matchup.