Reports: Thunder to sign Ish Smith

Because the Oklahoma City Thunder has had as many as eight players sidelined with injuries, the NBA has granted the team a hardship exemption, which is expected to lead to the signing of guard Ish Smith, multiple media outlets reported Thursday.

Smith, 26, probably will be in uniform for Friday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Smith has played for seven teams in four seasons, and played in 70 games for the Phoenix Suns last season, averaging 3.7 points and 2.6 assists.

He was waived by the Houston Rockets on Oct. 27.

A hardship exception allows a team to exceed the 15-man roster limit when at least four players miss at least three consecutive games and are expected to be sidelined an additional two weeks.

The Thunder has been down to seven available players on occasion this season.

Currently sidelined for an extended time are forward Kevin Durant (foot), guard Russell Westbrook (hand), forward Mitch McGary (foot), guard Anthony Morrow (sprained MCL) and forward Grant Jerrett (ankle).

Forward Perry Jones III (knee), guard Jeremy Lamb (back) and guard Andre Roberson (foot) are all listed as day-to-day.