CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cavs forward Dean Wade is ready to go.
Sources tell cleveland.com that Wade, who missed the previous six games because of a sprained ankle suffered on Nov. 17, will return to Cleveland’s lineup for Tuesday’s NBA Cup showdown with the Washington Wizards. Officially listed as questionable on the injury report, sources say Wade will come off the bench in a reserve role and his minutes being monitored throughout.
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Even though coach Kenny Atkinson spoke Sunday about not expecting Wade to play Tuesday night, effectively ruling him out as he wanted Wade to go through a full-contact practice before making his official return, sources say Wade convinced the coaches and trainers he was physically ready with a 3-on-3 workout Monday afternoon at the team’s practice facility. He then went through Tuesday’s shootaround without issue.
A part-time starter and key reserve, Wade is averaging 5.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 13 games this season.
Injuries have been a problem for the 6-foot-9 Wade throughout his career. He missed the final 19 games of the 2023-24 regular season because of a knee injury that also sidelined him for a duration of the playoffs. In his six-year NBA career, Wade has yet to play a full season.