The first pick in this year's NBA draft, forward Anthony Bennett of the Cleveland Cavaliers, is healthy enough to play five-on-five basketball which gives Cavaliers fans some good news following reports that newly acquired center Andrew Bynum won't be able to play in the preseason after a year of sitting out.
Yahoo! Sports is reporting that league sources have revealed that the rookie resumed playing competitive basketball this week. Bennett underwent surgery on May 8 for a torn left rotator cuff that was expected to keep him in the sidelines for four months. With his injury, the forward was unable to show his wares for the Cav's summer league team in Las Vegas.
Bennett's rehabilitation has been on schedule as the promising rookie began playing five-on-five basketball without restrictions this week. This marks the first time that the forward has been on the court since the surgery. Sources indicate that the top draft pick has played well although he is still far from being in basketball shape.
The rookie is competing with another young prospect, Tristan Thompson and veteran Anderson Varejao for minutes at the forward position. Thompson is expected to be the starting power forward, and could move to center if Bynum is still unhealthy enough to make a comeback to the court. Just this week, the Cavs announced that Bynum is far from being completely healed from a recurring knee injury. Varejao can play off the bench with Bennett moving in to number four spot to play alongside Thompson.
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