INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal is getting closer to returning from a thumb injury.

O'Neal took part in some of practice Thursday, although coach Mike Brown isn't counting on him being back before the playoffs.

O'Neal has been sidelined since tearing a ligament in his right thumb Feb. 25. He had surgery and was expected to miss the rest of the regular season. On Wednesday, the 14-time All-Star said he was ahead of schedule.

Also, forward Anderson Varejao worked out after missing two games because of a sore left hamstring. He's a game-time decision for Friday's game against Atlanta.