Nuggets forward Nene has been frustrated with his play since returning from a sprained left knee, but Karl said he sees signs of progress.
Nene is averaging 6.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in the six games after a five-week absence.
"I think he's rusty," Karl said. "He's a little bit late on the defensive rotations. He's a little bit late on his execution - sets and screens.
"I looked at the film (from Wednesday). I thought I was going to be more disappointed, and Nene's not that far away from having a good game. I think he'll have one this weekend."
