New York Knicks: 5 Reasons the Team Will Be Thrilled If J.R. Smith Leaves

Now that he's opted out of his $2.4 million contract option, New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith can test the open market in free agency.

A return to the Knicks is a distinct possibility for the 26-year old shooting guard, but if he signs a lucrative deal with a different team, New York will have several reasons to celebrate.

Smith is an exciting athletic specimen who can score in bunches, but there's a handful of downsides to signing him. Aside from the on-court deficiencies, there's always the potential for legal troubles or locker room discord.

Let's take a closer look: here are five reasons why the Knickerbockers will be thrilled if he leaves.

More Quality Shots for 'Melo and STAT

If the prospect of a thicker wallet lures J.R. Smith away from New York, the Knicks will have a substantial chunk of shots available for their scorers.

Smith has consistently put up a high volume of shots throughout his career without really being a high-percentage shooter. He takes a lot of pull-up three-pointers, but he only shot 35 percent from long distance last season.

With Smith gone, Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire wouldn't be deprived of key playmaking opportunities.

As long as Smith's replacement isn't a ball hog, the Knicks' offensive efficiency will improve.

Upgrade Defensively

J.R. Smith is a capable defender when he wants to be, and he certainly has the physical tools to make it happen.

However, he doesn't consistently apply himself on the defensive end, and is much more of an offensively oriented player.

His departure would be a prime opportunity for Knicks general manager Glen Grunwald to upgrade the squad defensively.

The Knicks were a good defensive team to begin with (fifth in the NBA in defensive rating), but without Smith they have the potential to be even better.

Better Facilitating Guards

One of the main problems with J.R. Smith handling and shooting the ball so much is the fact that he's not a great facilitator.

He doesn't turn the ball over much (unless you count ill-advised shots as turnovers), but he spends too much time dribbling to look for a shot.

Despite averaging nearly 25 minutes per game throughout his career, he only dishes three assists per contest. That's far too low considering how good a ball-handler he is. The Knicks already have a couple of excellent isolation players, they don't need another.

If Smith is no longer a Knickerbocker, there will undoubtedly be better ball distribution and efficiency in the Garden. 

No More Distractions

Smith's exit from the Big Apple would free the Knicks from the baggage that comes with the oft-troubled athlete.

He brings with him the ever-present potential for unwanted distractions. In 2009, he was jailed for reckless driving that led to the death of his passenger.

Earlier this year, Smith was arrested in Miami Beach for failing to appear in court after driving a scooter without a valid license. He's also been in trouble a couple of times for his questionable tweets.

Considering all these off-the-court issues, along with the occasional locker room discord, it's easy to see why New York would be thrilled to see him leave.

Upgrade at the Charity Stripe

Drawing fouls is one of J.R. Smith's strong suits, as he's a terrific slasher who can attack the rim.

Unfortunately, he's inconsistent when it comes to converting on the foul shots. He's a mediocre free-throw shooter for a shooting guard. In 2011-12, he barely eclipsed 70 percent, a mark all SGs should easily exceed.

It's nitpicking, but the reality is that Smith must improve at the line. If he leaves, the Knicks won't see as many scoring opportunities go to waste.

Follow @danielobleacher