Cleveland Cavaliers: Takeaways from heart-breaking L to Orlando Magic

The Cavs may need Smith after all.

Cleveland came into the season with only two viable options at power forward and both players could miss some time. Kevin Love is out for what could be over a month after recently getting surgery on his left foot. Sam Dekker, the Cavs only backup power forward, left Monday’s game against the Magic with what appeared to be a pretty bad ankle injury.

The Cavs are going to be in a tough position if Dekker misses extended time. Without another four on the team, Cleveland will be forced to either go small with Kyle Korver or Smith starting at the four, or by going big by starting Channing Frye or Larry Nance Jr. next to Thompson. Neither option is particularly appealing.

On the bright side, J.R. Smith came into the game for Dekker and more than held his own in a small-ball lineup. Smith finished with 14 points, four boards, three assists, two steals, and a block. Smith has given the Cavs some much needed three-point help as he is now six-for-nine from deep the past two games.

Smith has had an up and down year which has resulted in a trade request and a coach being fired for in part playing him and the vets. However, through it all, it appears that the Cavs still need Smith.

Smith may not start at the four for Dekker if he’s out, but I’m assuming that Smith will see additional minutes in Dekker’s place as the Cavs will try to go small. J.R. has shown the last two games that he still can help this team.