Knicks Rumors: New York Makes Most Sense for JR Smith

JR Smith has old teammates lobbying for him to join their new teams; he's the most valuable asset a team can bring in without a trade and has listed six clubs that he would like to play for on his Twitter account.

But by far, the best fit for the talented wing player is the New York Knicks. Let's look at a few things the Knicks offer.

Playing Time

If Smith is only looking to get a ton of minutes and be a starter, the Los Angeles Clippers should be his primary option. With the injury to Chauncey Billups, they have a hole at the 2-spot and Smith would fit perfectly.

The Knicks aren't far behind, though Smith would have to share minutes with Landry Fields. I would still expect Smith to start for the Knicks, even though he would receive more playing time in Lob City.

Money

Here's what you need to know in this regard, from Ramona Shelburne of ESPN:

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The Knicks are the presumed favorite to land Smith because they can offer him both a large role on the team, and their pro-rated $2.5 million mini mid-level exception. Exceptions are only pro-rated after Feb. 10, so Smith wouldn't be losing much. Most of the other teams reportedly interested in him, like the Lakers or Clippers, can only offer him a veteran minimum contract, which would be pro-rated from the beginning of the season.

"

That's about $1.5 million more than he could get with either the Lakers or Clippers. That's no chump change.

Familiarity

Smith played with Carmelo Anthony back in their Denver Nuggets days. So, they have that connection, which doesn't seem like much but I felt compelled to add after Chris Paul made a pitch for Smith by noting that they played together for two years in New Orleans.

The Knicks see your familiarity and raise you a 'Melo, CP3.

Playoffs

The Knicks have turned things around this year and seemed poised to make a run at the playoffs, something that should appeal to Smith.

But wait, how did the Knicks turn their season around again?

Linsanity!

Honestly, how could you watch what Jeremy Lin is doing right now and not get excited about playing with him? The atmosphere is even electric in the stands for away games because of Lin right now.  

Yeah, the Knicks also have superstars in 'Melo and Amar'e Stoudemire, but come on, right now people want to play with Lin. I don't see why Smith would be the exception in that regard.

Hit me up on Twitter—I'm #Linning.