Cavs Rumors: Sources Reveal J.R. Smith’s Expected Return Date

According to Terry Pluto of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard J.R. Smith appears to be right on track in regards to his expected return time from injury:

“I hear Smith should be back by April and able to play at least a few games before the playoffs open. The Cavs are pleased with his progress following thumb surgery, but don’t want to rush him. He’s important because he’s a strong, athletic presence on defense — along with having amazing 3-point range.”

The 6-foot-6 shooting guard fractured his thumb on Dec. 20 and was originally given a 12-to-14 week timetable. The Cavs end their regular season on April 12 against the Toronto Raptors and will play a total of seven games in April.

In his 21 games played this season, Smith had been averaging 8.6 points on 33.7 percent shooting from the field — well below his career averages.

A possible reason for his slow start could have been that he missed most of training camp as he was working out a three-year, $47 million guaranteed contract.