Deron Williams goes through contact, leaves with more calf tightness

With injury concerns looming large over the Mavericks with the season fast approaching, it appears as if two key players are on the mend.

Deron Williams, who has been dealing with a calf strain, went through contact work for the first time during training camp on Friday, ESPN Dallas' Tim MacMahon reports. He was later pulled from practice, however, when his other calf began giving him problems.At the start of camp, head coach Rick Carlisle addressed Williams' injury saying that it was minor and that he expected him to return soon.

After playing for Germany in EuroBasket 2015 in September, the Mavericks have been limiting the work load of Dirk Nowitzki. MacMahon also reports that Dirk participated in full-speed 5-on-5 work for the first time during camp as they ease him back into a steady workload.

Neither Williams nor Nowitzki have appeared in either of the Mavericks' two preseason games. It's too early to say with any certainty that either will be available on opening night but Nowitzki isn't battling any injuries. However, if they are both available, that bodes well for a team that could be without two starters come October 28.