PHILADELPHIA — Elton Brand's long-awaited return to the Philadelphia 76ers will be on hold until at least Saturday.

Brand dislocated his right shoulder Dec. 17 and worked out on the court before Monday's game against Dallas. He was placed on the inactive list for the 16th consecutive game. Coach Tony DiLeo said Brand most likely will play Saturday against the New York Knicks.

The 76ers are 9-6 without Brand and have won a season-best seven straight games entering Monday. They were 11-14 when the 6-foot-8 forward was sidelined.

Brand signed an $80 million, five-year contract in the offseason. He is averaging 15.9 points and 9.8 rebounds in 23 games.