Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr. Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Cavaliers' Larry Nance Jr. to return Friday vs. Pelicans

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 3/11/21

The Cleveland Cavaliers entered the All-Star break near the basement of the Eastern Conference standings, holders of a 14-22 record. They will, however, be closer to whole when they open the second half of the season at the New Orleans Pelicans.

Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reported on Thursday afternoon that forward Larry Nance Jr. will return to the rotation for Friday's game at New Orleans. Nance fractured his left hand in the loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Feb. 6 and hasn't played since. He underwent surgery to correct the issue.

Nance seemed to confirm Fedor's story via Twitter:

— Larry Nance Jr (@Larrydn22) March 11, 2021

Fedor added that Nance could've returned before the break, but the Cavaliers wanted to ensure the 28-year-old was fully fit. He participated in Thursday's practice in New Orleans.

Across 19 games this season, Nance leads the Cavaliers with 1.9 steals per game and is averaging 9.3 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists.

Fellow forward Kevin Love hasn't played since Dec. 27 due to a right calf strain and is "unlikely" to return on Friday.

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