Kyle Korver returns vs. Nuggets, J.R. Smith inserted into starting lineup

For the first time in about two weeks, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyle Korver will play.

Korver returns Wednesday against the Denver Nuggets after missing seven games with a left foot injury. Korver underwent an MRI Wednesday and participated in the team’s shootaround.

Additionally, J.R. Smith will start at shooting guard for the Cavs will Iman Shumpert returning to the bench, per reporting media in Denver.

This is the first time the Cavs have been at full strength in some time. In fact, Korver, Smith and Shumpert have yet to be healthy and active at the same time. With 13 games to go, Tyronn Lue now faces the task of getting his team’s rotations and lineups in order before the playoffs start. Per Jason Lloyd of The Athletic, Shumpert will not be dropped from the rotation.

Lue has talked about wanting to play Korver and Smith together at the end of games with LeBron James sliding up to the four and either Kevin Love and Tristan Thompson at center. It’s unknown at this time if Korver is on a minutes restriction in his first game back. Both Smith and Love were put on restrictions when they returned.

Tristan Thompson, who left Sunday’s game after being struck in the mouth and underwent dental work Tuesday, also will play Wednesday. His consecutive games streak will thus hit 440 vs. Denver.