MILWAUKEE – Point guard Dennis Smith Jr. will rejoin the Dallas Mavericks in time for the team’s home game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.
Smith has missed the past five games with either an illness or tightness in the middle of his back. The Mavs have posted a 2-3 record during Smith’s absence.
“I am excited to announce Dennis Smith Jr. will rejoin the team on Tuesday,” coach Rick Carlisle said via a text message. “Dennis and I spoke at length today.
“He is feeling better and plans to resume workouts in preparation for his return. There will be no further updates until Tuesday.”
Smith has been chomping at the bit to get back on the court, and now that opportunity is here.
“I am thrilled to rejoin my teammates on Tuesday,” Smith said in a statement. “I am feeling better and had a great workout today.
“It has been difficult to be away, but I look forward to getting back on the court and helping my team win.”
Smith’s return is even more vital considering point guard J. J. Barea – he runs the Mavs’ second unit – underwent season-ending surgery last Monday to repair his torn right Achilles tendon. The Mavs’ depth at point guard took a major hit with the loss of Barea.
“He’s a special player,” forward Harrison Barnes said of Smith. “He’s going to have a bright future in this league.
“He’s a great player and whenever he’s back on the court I think he’ll remind people of that.”
In 28 games this season, Smith has averaged 12.6 points and 3.9 assists in 27.7 minutes per contest. With his ability to break down defenses with his mercurial speed, Smith is just what the doctor ordered during this critical juncture of the season.
“As a player, he’s just a special talent,” forward Dorian Finney-Smith said. “I feel like when he gets going, especially when he gets his rhythm, he starts making crazy shots.
“He really doesn’t think about all of the attention – he loves to have fun. But once you get him to open up, he really cares about anything he’s a part of.”
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