Anderson Varejao will be sidelined for the remainder of the season after developing a blood clot in his lung, the Cavaliers announced today in a press release. The issue surfaced shortly after Varejao had undergone leg surgery that was expected to keep him out of action for six to eight weeks.
"Clearly our players' health is our top concern and we are disappointed for Anderson, and his family," said GM Chris Grant in a statement. "We know what a competitor he is and how much he wants to be on the court helping his teammates. In the meantime, he has our full support and we look forward to welcoming him back as he recovers."
While Varejao is expected to make a full recovery, his absence will hurt the Cavs' on-court prospects this season, with the team likely headed for another high lottery pick. Varejao's latest health issue also figures to rule out the possibility that Cleveland will trade him this season. We've seen sidelined stars moved at the deadline before, such as Andrew Bogut a year ago, but I'd be shocked if the Cavs dealt Varejao while he undergoes treatment for the blood clot.
Because the deadline to apply for a disabled player exception came and went last week, the Cavaliers won't be able to request a DPE for Varejao. However, it wouldn't have been of use for the Cavs anyway, since the team has more room in cap space than the amount such an exception would have been worth ($4.18MM).