Tim Hardaway Jr. progressing but weeks away from return

The Dallas Mavericks are preparing for their second-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns. They are the underdogs against the top-seeded Suns but do not count out Luka Doncic and company. The 23-year-old superstar is a matchup problem for any opponent, and he gives the Mavs a chance in any series.

Fans have been hoping Tim Hardaway Jr. will return at some point during the playoffs. The 6’5 wing injured his foot on Jan. 25 and had surgery to repair his broken fifth metatarsal on Feb. 1. He has been spotted shooting, and supporters know his instant offense can be game-changing, especially off the bench in a playoff series.

Head coach Jason Kidd offered an update on Hardaway’s recovery on May 1. He noted that he began running for the first time since the surgery, but only in a straight line. It will be three to four weeks before THJ can jump or cut, and the team offered no timetable for his return.

Dallas Mavericks wing Tim Hardaway Jr. progressing but weeks away from return

Fans can hear what Kidd said about THJ during his media availability below courtesy of Brad Townsend.

Coach Kidd previously said he expected Hardaway Jr. to miss the entire 2022 NBA Playoffs, and this update sticks to that notion. If THJ cannot cut or jump until late May, it will still be another few weeks before he is ready for game action. At that point, Dallas would be in the NBA Finals, and it would be difficult to give Hardaway Jr. his first action in five months on the biggest stage.

It was positive to hear that Tim Hardaway Jr. continues to make progress from his foot surgery. He is likely out for the rest of the playoffs, but the 6’5 wing should be fully healthy for training camp. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.