Cavs fears realized today with JR Smith.
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Dellavedova left the Cavaliers to join the Bucks in the offseason, signing a four-year, $39 million dollar contract. Lue admit that they will go to miss Smith on his effort on defense, his intense shot making, however, it is not an excuse for them.
Smith’s surgery took place at the Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center in Montrose, Ohio, and head coach Tyronn Lue admitted that the New Jersey native would be sorely missed.
That leaves the Cavs without their three-point marksmen until at least late March, or just weeks before they begin defense of their crown in earnest with the start of the postseason. That comes on the heels of him averaging 12-plus points and shooting at a 40 percent clip from three-point range last season.
The Cavs have been looking for a backup point guard since training camp, but Smith’s injury could change their priorities.
“I hope, man. It would be great, four games against them”, Irving said. And yes, Shumpert is having his best season as a Cav so having him play more isn’t the worst thing in the world.
That leaves either DeAndre Liggins or Mike Dunleavy as the likely replacements, but both would be a step down from Smith. James is expected to have his minutes reduced next month. It’s believed Smith injured his thumb when he tried to swipe the ball from Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
James expects everyone to step up.
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After being down 3 games to 1, the Cavaliers pulled off one of the greatest come backs in National Basketball Association history to defeat the Golden State Warriors in 7 games. Don’t play J.R.’s role. We’ve got to do it by committee.
