Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey is expected to play Friday against the Cleveland Cavaliers after a late-game hand issue earlier in the week.
During Wednesday’s 112-106 win over the Detroit Pistons, Maxey reached for a loose ball and then grabbed at his right hand.
He rose slowly but stayed on the floor for the remainder of the game while dealing with discomfort.
Afterward, Maxey addressed the situation with reporters.
“I’ll be fine,” Maxey said. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, this is how my finger’s looked all season since last year. But I’m fine.”
The 76ers’ injury report for the Cavaliers game, filed Thursday night, did not list Maxey at all.
The same held true on Friday morning, signaling he is cleared to play barring any unexpected change.
Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Eastern at Rocket Arena in Cleveland.
The matchup is an NBA Cup group-play game and the second meeting between the teams this season.
Maxey leads the 76ers in scoring this year at 28.0 points per game across nine contests.
He also averages 3.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.6 steals and 0.8 blocks.
In the teams’ first meeting on Oct. 22 in Philadelphia, Maxey played 42 minutes and posted 32 points, six assists, three rebounds and two steals in a 114-106 win.
The 76ers enter Friday with an 8-1 record, the best mark in the Eastern Conference after five consecutive victories.
Cleveland is 4-4.
Maxey has started all nine games and averages 37.0 minutes while shooting 48.6% from the field.
He has a history of right pinky problems, including a tendon injury late last season that briefly sidelined him.
His availability helps a Philadelphia roster that also includes LeBron James, Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown.
Philadelphia’s injury report lists Adem Bona as day-to-day with a spine issue, while Ariel Hukporti (Achilles) and Dominick Barlow (back) are out.
Cleveland has several players listed as questionable or out, including Jarrett Allen (knee).
Maxey’s clearance gives the league’s top team continuity heading into the rematch.
