J.R. Smith returns vs. Pistons following 3-game absence

Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard J.R. Smith will return to the lineup versus the Detroit Pistons on Friday following a three-game absence, head coach Tyronn Lue told Jason Lloyd of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Iman Shumpert will likely return to Cleveland's bench with Smith officially back.

The 12-year veteran is putting up solid numbers for the Cavaliers this season, averaging 10.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.4 assists. However, Smith has struggled from an efficiency standpoint, shooting just 33.8 percent from the field.

The Cavaliers (9-2) are currently tied with the Atlanta Hawks for first place in the Eastern Conference.