The Washington Wizards didn’t play very well during preseason, finishing with 4 wins and 4 losses, but more importantly, they failed to come out unscathed. Injuries have sidelined Bradley Beal, Glen Rice Jr., Paul Pierce and Kris Humphries.

But with less than a week remaining before the start of the regular season, it looks like the Wizards may have some key players returning on opening night against the Miami Heat.

Nene and DeJuan Blair are both suspended for the opening game because of their involvement in the scuffle with the Chicago Bulls, and the Wizards’ front court seemed depleted, at least for the first game. Kris Humphries wasn’t expected to play after suffering a laceration to his hand in the same game against Chicago, but he might be ready to return against the Heat after all:

The stitches have been taken out of Kris Humphries’ right hand and he remains optimistic that he’ll be available for the Wizards on opening night.

– via CSN Washington

Kris Humphries cut his hand after attempting to block a shot against Chicago and was scheduled to miss at least 3-4 weeks. He’s recovered quickly, got his stitches removed, and has even begun doing some light shooting.

With Nene and Blair out for the first game, Marcin Gortat, Drew Gooden, and Kevin Seraphin would take up all of the Wizards’ front court minutes. Kris Humphries’ ability to knock down the 15-18 foot jump shot will make him a real threat within the Wizards’ offense, especially along side John Wall, and he’ll likely become Trevor Booker‘s replacement this season.

Miami doesn’t have much size up front and Kris Humphries would provide some match up problems.

Let’s hope all goes well and Kris Humphries returns against the Miami Heat.