Zhaire Smith could be making his professional debut soon.
The wing has a chance to play for the Delaware Blue Coats, the 76ers' G League affiliate, on Friday, according to a report from the Philadelphia Inquirer.
If things continue to go as scheduled, #Sixers rookie @zhaire_smith will make his pro debut for the @blue_coats in Friday’s @nbagleague road game vs. the @maineredclaws, according to sources. He was sidelined due to a Jones fracture in his foot & allergic reaction to food. pic.twitter.com/YfvGHrmXd4
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) February 27, 2019
Smith was selected with the 16th pick in the 2018 draft out of Texas Tech. However, he has yet to play this season.
Smith needed surgery over the summer to repair a fracture in his left foot. He originally was expected to be back on the court in December, but his return was delayed because of serious complications from an allergic reaction.
The 19-year-old was assigned to the G League and began participating in non-contact drills Jan. 24. He practiced with the 76ers last week.
76ers coach Brett Brown said earlier this month he "doesn't expect" Smith to make his NBA debut this season.
Brett Brown doesn’t expect @zhaire_smith to play for the #Sixers this season. The hope is for him to play some games for the @blue_coats.
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) February 20, 2019
"It's great to see him sort of run around," Brown said after Smith practiced with the team, via NBC Philadelphia. "There is a bounce. There really is a bounce. He looks good physically."
The 76ers are 39-22 and rank fourth in the Eastern Conference standings. They will face the Thunder on Thursday.
