Caris LeVert Participates in On-Court Workout Before Pacers vs. Nets

Indiana Pacers guard Caris LeVert appears to be making progress in his recovery from a cancerous growth on his left kidney.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Shortly after the Indiana Pacers completed their part in the four-team blockbuster trade centered around James Harden, it was uncovered that Caris LeVert had a cancerous growth on his left kidney. As a result, he was ruled out indefinitely. 

According to J. Michael of the Indianapolis Star, Caris LeVert is with the Pacers in Brooklyn for their matchup with the Nets. Before the game, he participated in an on-court workout. 

Caris LeVert is in Brooklyn for tonight’s game vs his old team. Will work out some. It appears he’ll be with them for 3-game trip #PacersNets

— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) February 10, 2021

It remains to be seen how long LeVert will remain sidelined for as he continues to recovery from surgery. The Pacers have been reluctant to set a timetable for return since he the recovery process is a rather fluid one based on how his body reacts. 

Right now, the Pacers remain without both LeVert and TJ Warren, which has significantly reduced their ability to stack up with top teams in head-to-head matchups. Without them, there is a lot of pressure placed on Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon to lead the offense. 

The Pacers can afford to be patient with the recoveries of LeVert and Warren. While Doug McDermott is set to become a free agent, each of their starters are signed through the 2021-22 season. Indiana will have a greater sense of what to do long-term when each of their starters are available to play. 

The potential that LeVert has as a player is intriguing and it will be fascinating to see him play in a new system. Last season, he raised his game last season and averaged 18.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in 45 appearances. 

Caris LeVert raised his game even further in the NBA Bubble by posting averages of 23.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 7.8 assists for the Nets. With so many key teammates sidelined, he needed to shoulder greater responsibility and answered the call.