Winslow returns to practice

MIAMI — Heat forward Justise Winslow was on the practice court for the first time in nearly one month, giving reason to believe he is inching closer toward a return.

Winslow went through a full-contact workout Tuesday but is still listed as “out” on the injury report for Wednesday’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers at AmericanAirlines Arena. He has missed 16 games because of a sprained left wrist.

“Justise went through practice,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “That was his first full-contact practice. I don’t know if he’ll be ready to go. I’m planning on, whoever is available, that’s who we’re going with. So it was a good step, but we’ll just have to see how his body responds [Wednesday].”

The prognosis wasn’t as encouraging for guard Dion Waiters. Although Waiters was able to participate in some shooting drills, he will miss his 10th consecutive game due to a groin injury.

“Dion is doing better,” Spoelstra said. “He’s still not ready to practice, but he was able to do some light shooting. He’s doing some work right now …

“He’s on course. That’s why we didn’t want to necessarily put a timeline. He’s on course. He’s making progress. He’s doing more.”

Spoelstra said he is focused mostly on the healthy players and will continue with makeshift lineups until the team is fully healthy.

MICHAEL LAUGHLIN/STAFF FILE PHOTO Justise Winslow steals the ball from the Chicago Bulls Dwyane Wade during a game Nov. 10. Winslow hasn’t played for nearly a month because of a wrist injury.