Zhaire Smith’s rookie season has been shocking, even by the lofty standard set by first round picks of the Philadelphia 76ers. Smith, who the team acquired in a draft day trade with the Phoenix Suns for Mikal Bridges, suffered a fracture in his left foot which required surgery and delayed his ability to suit up.
That would be bad enough, but Smith struggled following surgery due to an allergic reaction. According to Smith, the reaction caused him to lose a ton of weight — he checked in around 199 pounds at the NBA Draft Combine, and at his low point following the allergic reaction, Smith fell down to 164 pounds.
The good news is that Smith is doing better, as he’s sitting around 206 pounds and got the chance to get some run with the Sixers’ G League squad. With some of the rust off, Philly has decided to call Smith up and join the Sixers for Tuesday night’s matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The team has recalled @zhaire_smith from @blue_coats. He will be available for tonight’s game vs. Cleveland.
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) March 12, 2019
It’s a really positive sign that Smith has gotten to a place physically where he can play in an NBA game, although Brett Brown won’t just throw him into action right away.
Brett Brown said Zhaire Smith is with team. Undecided whether he’ll play.
— Jon Johnson (@jonjohnsonwip) March 12, 2019
Will have more for you soon, but would not have high expectations re: Zhaire actually getting minutes tonight after listening to Brett pregame. They’re glad to have him here for various reasons, but doesn’t sound like he’ll just be thrown into the fire
— Kyle Neubeck (@KyleNeubeck) March 12, 2019
Whenever he’s able to suit up, though, the former Texas Tech standout should be able to give Philadelphia an athletic spark off of the bench. Still, considering all he’s gone through, it will just be nice to see Smith be in a position where he can play basketball.
