Brook Lopez will start against the Wizards

After missing two games with a sprained left ankle, Brook Lopez will return to the starting lineup against the Washington Wizards tonight. Lopez will join the rejuvenated Deron Williams, Alan Anderson, Kevin Garnett and Joe Johnson, who is fresh off of his 37-point outburst against the Sixers Monday.

For the Wizards, Trevor Booker will remain in the starting lineup for Nene. Nene is active and will come off the bench despite missing the past three and a half games with a sore achilles.

Paul Pierce will remain in his reserve role tonight, and what looks like the time being.

On coming off bench, Jason Kidd says Paul Pierce is "understanding that it makes the team stronger." Sounds like this is gonna last a while

— Stefan Bondy (@NYDNInterNets) December 18, 2013

The Nets have won four of their last five, and Lopez being back and healthy makes them that more dangerous.