J.R. Smith's Opening Night Technical Foul vs. Bulls Rescinded by NBA

The NBA has rescinded the technical foul that was issued to J.R. Smith on Tuesday night and played a large part in the team's opening-night 97-95 loss to the Chicago Bulls, according to Chris Haynes of Cleveland.com. 

"It doesn't matter now," Smith said of the league's decision, per Haynes. "That affected the whole game."

Smith's reputation seemed to precede him in this case, as the guard has a history of off-court issues and on-court antics.

"I can't show any emotions," he said. "I've just got to be conscious of that and try to get better with that every day."

Smith was called for a foul against Nikola Mirotic with 4:58 remaining in the game. Smith and his teammates reacted in shock to the call and Smith walked away from the area, visibly upset. He was given a technical foul for his actions, though it didn't appear Smith said anything outrageous or was attempting to show up the referee.

The Bulls were in the bonus and Jimmy Butler hit the technical free throw before Mirotic sunk both of his attempts. That gave the Bulls a five-point lead and seemed to shift momentum back their way down the stretch. 

In two games this season, Smith is averaging 8.5 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 32 minutes per game. He's a crucial part of Cleveland's title hopes this season, as his perimeter shooting, athleticism and ability to score make him a vital part of the team's depth.