JR Smith
Ever since the Cleveland Cavaliers lost LeBron James this past offseason, it’s seemed JR Smith has checked out. He’s been sitting out the past few weeks in hopes that the team will trade him, not wanting to spend his season tanking like the Cavs plan to do.
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Contractually, Smith is owed $14.7 million this season, one reason the Cavs might not be buying out the sharpshooter. However, next season, he’s owed under $4 million, meaning the Warriors could waive him if they felt he wasn’t contributing enough.
While Smith hasn’t quite been his dynamic sniping self this season, he’s had sparks of greatness over the last few years. This season, Smith has averaged just 6.7 points per game and has shot under 35% from the field, not a pretty site for those interested in the veteran.
It shouldn’t take the Warriors too long to remember Smith’s value though. He was automatic from downtown a few games in the 2015 and 2016 NBA Finals. While Smith’s team didn’t always win, when he was on, they had at least a fighting chance.
Last season, Smith shot over 37% from deep, a very respectable mark. Smith could help free up cap, but he’d need to prove himself on the court before fans could imagine any trade being advantageous for Golden State.
At 33, Smith should still be productive if given the space and motivation.