Dwight Howard still has some injury hurdles to clear.

Wizards coach Scott Brooks on Saturday confirmed the veteran big man will not play in the team's preseason opener Monday against the Knicks.

Howard, in his first season with the Wizards after changing teams twice this offseason, is dealing with back soreness and has yet to practice with his new squad since joining the team in July.

Despite missing all five days of Washington's training camp, Howard was seen practicing his free throws.

Howard, 32, was traded from the Hornets to the Nets before being bought out of his contract and permitted to test the free agent market. He averaged 16.6 points,12.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game with the Hornets last season.

The Wizards will host the Knicks at 7 p.m. ET Monday.

Washington opens the regular season Oct. 18 against Miami.