Heat's Josh Richardson: Cleared to play Friday vs. Hawks

Richardson (ankle) took part in a full practice Wednesday and has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Hawks, Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.

Richardson has missed the last 19 games, but has finally gotten over his lingering ankle injury and was able to put in a full practice Wednesday. He's already been cleared by the Heat medical staff for a return Friday, so look for him to jump back into a significant role on the wing. Richardson has started 20 of the 28 games he's played in this season, although it remains to be seen if he'll immediately reclaim a role with the top unit. His return likely means a decrease in minutes for guys like Rodney McGruder and Wayne Ellington.