Sixers rookie Zhaire Smith has been sidelined due to a foot injury since August, but it sounds like he's nearing a return. In fact, the former Texas Tech standout has been assigned to Philadelphia's G League affiliate, the Deleware Blue Coats.
Shams Charania of The Athletic shared the news on Thursday morning, noting that Smith will participate in non-contact drills with the team:
Sources @TheAthleticNBA @WatchStadium: 76ers rookie Zhaire Smith has started his return process to the team after broken foot and allergy issue, being assigned to G League Delaware for non-contact elements of practice. He’ll ramp up activities as weeks progress.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 24, 2019
The Phoenix Suns selected Smith with the 16th overall pick in last years draft, but he was immediately traded to the Sixers. Less than two months later, the 19-year-old injured his foot at a summer development camp. He was diagnosed with an acute Jones fracture of the fifth metatarsal and underwent successful surgery on August 10th.
A fractured foot wasn't the only ailment that Smith has dealt with, however. He also underwent thoracoscopy surgery due to an allergic reaction.
Sixers general manager Elton Brand has previously stated that Smith could return to action at some point during his rookie season, but it seems he'll need a bit more time to recover. When Smith does come back into the fold, he'll likely be on a minutes restriction. Currently, there is no timetable set.
The Sixers (32-17 and 2nd in the Atlantic Division standings) will be back in action on Saturday, then they'll travel to Denver for a matchup against the Nuggets. Tip-off inside the Pepsi Center is set for 9:00 p.m. ET.
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