Heat's Josh Richardson: Cleared to play Friday vs. Hawks

Richardson (ankle) took part in a full practice Wednesday and has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Hawks, Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.

Analysis:

Richardson has missed the last 19 games, but has finally recovered from his sprained left ankle after practicing in full without incident Wednesday. Given his long layoff, it's likely the Heat ease him back into action off the bench, but once he's further removed from the injury, he could challenge either Rodney McGruder or Dion Waiters for a starting role. Given how well Waiters has played of late, McGruder and bench wing Wayne Ellington seem more likely bets to cede playing time to Richardson, who is averaging 11.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.6 three-pointers and 1.0 steal in 31.3 minutes per game over 28 appearances on the season.