The Philadelphia 76ers will not have Zhaire Smith available for the restarted season in Orlando in July.
Smith has a bone bruise in his left knee and began experiencing symptoms before the team had its training camp in anticipation of the resumed season.
Philadelphia 76ers wing Zhaire Smith has a bone bruise in his left knee, per source. He will not travel to Orlando.
Smith began experiencing pain prior to the Sixers resuming workouts last week, and he started treatment immediately. He is expected to make a full recovery.
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) June 30, 2020
Smith only appeared in seven games this season and was hardly a factor (1.1 points in 4.6 minutes per game), but there are other consequences to Philly beyond not having him available.
As Derek Bodner notes, because the injury occurred prior to training camp, the Sixers will not be eligible for a replacement player.
Smith was the No. 16 overall pick in 2018. Philly enters the restart tied with Indiana for fifth in the East with a 39-26 record. They have managed to win a good amount despite some chemistry issues.
