Even the best falls down sometimes. It’s true. And when the process is big and difficult, a long break does the trick.
Following a serious left knee injury on Monday night, Cleveland Cavaliers’ J. R. Smith left the game versus the Toronto Raptors. The press and fans then turned into worries that the shooting guard might be out for the season to pave way for his health recovery.
The next thing we knew, his teammate DeAndre Liggins will start at shooting guard when the Cavs play at the New York Knicks. Coach Tyronn Lue confirmed the news and he chose Liggins over Iman Shumpert, who used to be the Cavs’ backup point guard.
“Just like the energy he brings. When you get that kind of energy from a guy, I think it’s contagious. I think guys on the team play harder when they see him flying all around the floor,” Lue said of Liggins.
Despite the fact that Smith didn’t have any structural knee damage, there’s a possibility that the NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2013) will be off-court for a while.
“Great news. Talked to him last night, said he feels normal. That’s a good sign. With the way he fell and the way he reacted, I thought he was going to be out for a long time,” Lue revealed.
According to ESPN, an MRI result of Smith’s left knee showed no structural damage, and the Cavs noted that he will be day-to-day with what was a diagnosis called knee contusion. As a support to one of his key players, Lue said that he could let him go momentarily if the situation calls for it, especially that he needs full recovery and regain his strength.
"Whatever he needs to get his leg right," Lue said. "That's the important thing, looking at the long haul, down the stretch."
The 31-year old inked a four-year deal worth $57 million in October to stay with the defending NBA champions. Although his struggle this season is evident ,as he averages 7.8 points and shooting just 31 percent, his presence is crucial in getting the wins for his squad. Prior to his re-signing with the Cavaliers, Smith’s name joined the noisy world of trade rumors due to contract offers but finally opted to extend his loyalty with the Cavs.
His temporary absence will be greatly missed. To recall, during the Lebron James’ training camp, Smith was not able to join and his coach had only the best words for him. Lue admitted missing the “heart” and “soul” of their league.
"The biggest thing is we miss J.R. I mean, you can feel it," Lue said in an interview.
"J.R., he's the heart and soul of team. Usually when it's anything involving the team, J.R. would be there and would be right in the middle of it. You'd hear him laughing or if it's work, he'd be out there giving it his all. It's hard," Lue added.
Surely, J.R. will bounce back and will soar higher to retain the Cavs’ winning title.
