Cavs lose JR Smith for three months

It's going to be hard to stop Cleveland in the NBA's Eastern Conference, even if they don't have the man affectionately known as JR Swish.

Cavaliers starting guard JR Smith will miss at least three months following surgery on his right thumb, a major injury that will have a ripple effect for the defending NBA champions.

The team says Smith, who suffered a "complex fracture" earlier this week, will need 12 to 14 weeks of recovery time. The playoffs begin in mid-April.

Smith's surgery was performed on Friday by renowned hand specialist Dr. Thomas Graham, with two other physicians assisting.

The loss of Smith, one of the team's best outside shooters will force coach Tyronn Lue to make adjustments with his rotations and general manager David Griffin to alter the team's roster.

The Cavs have been looking for a backup point guard, but Smith's injury could change their priorities.