New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith has been suspended without pay for five games for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program.
Smith, the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award winner last season, is currently recovering from patellar tendon surgery on his left knee over the offseason. While he may be ready for the start of the season, his suspension won’t take effect until the first game of the 2013-14 season in which he’s eligible and physically able to play.
The nine-year veteran posted career highs with averages of 18.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game last season and signed a four-year extension over the offseason.
Smith, 27, is expected to be available sometime between Oct. 15 and Nov. 15. The Knicks’ regular-season opener is Oct. 30 at Milwaukee.