DETROIT >> Jaden Ivey does not view his unfortunate injury against the Orlando Magic as a dirty play. In fact, he was in so much pain that he didn’t care about what happened.

“I’ve watched the clip; it’s just a basketball play,” Ivey said Thursday at Henry Ford Health Pistons Performance Center. “You are diving on the floor and playing hard for your team; I get it. I am not too over the situation of how I got hurt. But I am just taking things day by day.”

During the Detroit Pistons victory over the Magic on Jan. 1, Ivey suffered a broken left fibula when Cole Anthony drove into his left leg at Little Caesars Arena. He instantly tumbled to the floor, holding his lower leg while screaming in pain. Unable to walk, Ivey was wheeled off the court on a stretcher and underwent surgery at Henry Ford Hospital the following day.

The injury has since sidelined Ivey for the past 2.5 months, halting a career year in which the third-year guard had averaged 17.6 points on 46% shooting, 41% 3-point shooting, 4.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists through 29 games.

Although there isn’t a timetable for his return, Ivey continues to take significant steps in his ongoing recovery.

“It has been really quick; I feel like things are processing well,” Ivey said. “I am doing my treatments on top of everything else. I am lining up to make a return, wherever the time may be. I am trying to take it day by day. But I know my body. I know when I am ready to get back on the court.”

The Pistons announced in a press release Thursday morning that Ivey has transitioned to weight-bearing strengthening exercises, running progression activity and stationary shooting. The team will provide an additional update on his progress within the next four weeks.

“My spirits are up; I trust in the Lord. I know he is a healer,” Ivey said. “He will heal my body to where it needs to be. I am just trusting what I am going through right now and leaning on him as best as I can — continuing to get better.”

Ivey strongly desires to return to the court and wishes he could compete with his teammates amid their push toward the postseason. However, he understands he cannot rush his rehabilitation.

During a time of hardship, Ivey’s faith has helped him find peace, while his teammates have kept him encouraged. Ivey said that each time his teammates see him rehabbing at the training facility, they shout out, “Keep going, J.I.”

“It is always a joy to see and be around them,” Ivey said. “They have given me so much encouragement throughout this process. With Cade (Cunningham) having his injury during my rookie year, I always talk to him about things and the conversations I have with my teammates. They are always lifting me up. To be around them is a joy.”

At the time of his injury, Ivey was having one of his best games of the season. He scored 22 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including five 3-point field goals. His performance against the Magic highlighted the crucial role he played in Detroit’s revitalization this season.

The Pistons have recorded a 23-11 record (37-29 overall) in the 34 games since Ivey’s injury. While proud of his team’s success, Detroit’s achievements have fueled his motivation for a triumphant return.

“We are having a blessed year,” Ivey said. “Everyone is thriving. You can see the juice that we have as a unit. We are playing together. We are playing great ball right now. It is motivating. I want to be out there so bad. I am putting in the work to get back. …

“The time will come when my body says I am ready. I don’t have a thought on when that could be. But I am taking it day by day for sure.”