Lakers Rumors: JR Smith Would Be a Massive Boost for Lake Show

Free agent swingman JR Smith would cure a huge portion of the current problems ailing the Los Angeles Lakers. 

After signing overseas during the lockout, 26-year-old Smith has been balling in China this year. Now that that season has run its course he is free to find a new home in the NBA. 

Smith is a streaky shooter that spent the past five seasons in Denver. Last year he averaged 12.3 points and 4.1 while playing just 24.9 minutes per game. 

When Smith is going good, he can carry an offense and change a game. The dude has nearly unlimited range. When he is going bad he can be a divisive, shot-chucking force. He is not going to win any defensive honors either. 

He is also a perfect fit for the Lakers, and they seem to realize this. 

The Rumors

LA is clearly interested in Smith. Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times reported news of Smith having a little powwow with Mike Brown. 

"

Coach Mike Brown spoke with free agent J.R. Smith, a forward-guard who could solve two problems at once for the Lakers.

Smith could help them at small forward and also provide backup support for Kobe Bryant at shooting guard.

"

While the Lakers are out of cap room and can only offer him a prorated minimum, Smith certainly seemed excited about his meeting with the Lakers. 

Smith is drawing plenty of interest. On his twitter page, he has the Knicks, Lakers, Clippers, Bulls, Magic and Pacers listed under his name and followed by question marks. 

He would have to decide to take less money to play for the Lakers then he would with a team like the Knicks. 

While they won't be able to offer him as a big a contract, they do have some other perks, and they offer him a perfect fit. 

Fit with the Lake Show

The Lakers need outside shooting. They are shooting just 29.8 percent from distance. This is an especially big problem for the Lakers as they have the two big men inside and no one to stretch the defense from the perimeter. 

Smith would would fill this role nicely. Smith would also get plenty of minutes with the Lakers. He could run with the starters at small forward, and fill in for Kobe when he needs a breather. 

And it is when he is filling in for Kobe that he would could an unprecedented amount of freedom. The Lakers second unit is abysmal. They need someone like Smith who can launch a shot at any moment.

Smith would be given the chance to shine with the Lakers, and play a huge role. And while his contract wouldn't be what he is used to, shining on the Lakers is a lucrative proposition.

This would be a good fit for both sides.