Cleveland Cavaliers sharpshooter Kyle Korver has been away from the team for several days due to the passing of his younger brother, Kirk. The Cavs gave Kyle an excused leave of absence to be with his family as they mourned. Now, with the funeral services completed, the former Creighton Blue Jay has returned to Cleveland, according to a report from Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com.
Without a doubt, Korver is an important piece in Cleveland’s metaphorical puzzle. In his 69 games played this season, the 37-year-old marksman has racked up averages of 9.4 points on 45.8 percent shooting from the field (44.0 percent from beyond the arc), 2.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists — all while knocking down 88.4 percent of his free-throws.
Shortly after hearing of Kirk’s passing, the Cavs sent out an official statement to offer their condolences.
“We are very sad to share that Cavaliers guard Kyle Korver’s brother, Kirk, passed away on Tuesday, March 20. Kyle has been excused from the team to be with his family. We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt best to Kyle and his entire family as they go through this very difficult time.”
Vardon notes that Korver could rejoin the Cavs’ rotation when they return to Cleveland for Friday night’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Cavs — now the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference standings with a 44-30 overall record — will close out a three-game road trip on Wednesday night with a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets. Tip-off inside the Spectrum Center is set for 7:00 p.m. EST with NBA TV, FOX Sports Ohio and FOX Sports Southast having live broadcast coverage.