J.R. Smith: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation Surrounding Free-Agent Guard

J.R. Smith, by all accounts, developed a strong relationship with LeBron James during his stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers, ostensibly giving him bargaining power as the four-time MVP exerts his power in Cleveland. The Cavs continue to pursue the unrestricted free-agent guard. 

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Cavs Still Pursuing Smith

Monday, July 6

The Cavaliers are still attempting to re-sign Smith as they look to keep the "whole band together," according to ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

Joe Vardon of the Northeast Ohio Media Group reported on June 30 that a source said the Cavaliers "do not value" Smith, who became an unrestricted free agent after opting out of his $6.4 million option for 2015-16. Cleveland acquired Smith alongside Iman Shumpert and Timofey Mozgov in January as part of a two-trade package that helped turn around the team's season.

Whereas Shumpert and Mozgov helped prop up a struggling defense, Smith played his gunner role almost ideally. He averaged 12.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists with the Cavs during the regular season, knocking down nearly three three-pointers per game.

Unfortunately, Smith's inconsistencies reared their head at the worst possible time in the playoffs. After performing brilliantly in the Cavs' four-game sweep of Atlanta in the conference finals, Smith couldn't find the bucket in the Finals. He shot just 31.2 percent from the floor in the Warriors' six-game victory, often leaving LeBron to fend for himself offensively. Smith himself assessed his play with an expletive not fit for a family website.

Couple that with Smith's questionable on-court decision-making—he was suspended for the first two games of the Chicago series after an on-court altercation with Boston's Jae Crowder—and it's not a surprise the Cleveland brass is hesitant.

Writer Joe Kotoch reported Smith was searching for a three-year deal at around $8 million annually. 

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