It’s likely that Al Horford will play in at least one of the Hawks’ three exhibition games this week.

The center has been out with a torn right pectoral muscle suffered 29 games into last season. The team has brought him along slowly through training camp. It appears that his rehabilitation has progressed to the point where he can soon get back on a court against an opposing team.

“I think we are hopeful that at some point during the week he’ll get a chance to play,” coach Mike Budenholzer said following Monday’s practice.

Horford took part in most of the team’s five-on-five and scrimmage work Monday. The Hawks have games at the Heat Tuesday, at the Bulls Thursday and home against the Pistons Saturday. The also host the Hornets Monday before ending the exhibition season Wednesday at the Spurs.

Budenholzer said no decision has been made as to the exact game Horford will return. Horford said he has not been told by the coaching or training staff as to when he will debut.

“I’ll keep working,” Horford said. “I’m pretty much in everything (in practice). My whole thing is keep practicing, keep getting more comfortable with the guys and to be back playing period.”

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