Predicting J.R. Smith’s Next NBA Team

The J.R. Smith run in Cleveland is over after five seasons. Today, the Cavs waived the guard, which will make him a free agent in the coming days. This has long been expected, though not many people have speculated where J.R. will end up for next season. Many assumed the Lakers would be a logical fit because of LeBron James, but Woj has all but ruled that out.

While J.R. is surely on the decline in his career, there’s no question he could still help out a contender next season. He’ll always be able to shoot the 3 and that’s always important in the NBA.

With the Lakers out, the Complex Sports team decided to run through some options for J.R.’s next move and where he might end up. 

Houston Rockets 

This makes a lot of sense, if it happened. Houston needs shooting and J.R. would fit in great with Harden and Russ. Imagine a bench punch from Swish to compliment two MVPs. Also, J.R. in that Rockets system that encourages bombing 3s would be must-see TV.  

Los Angeles Clippers 

While Woj said J.R. wouldn’t be heading to the Lakers, he would be an interesting fit for the Clippers. They’re already super deep, but you can never have enough shooting. 

Philadelphia Sixers 

The Sixers are in desparate need of some shooting and if they miss out on Kyle Korver, J.R. would be a very legit option to consider. For J.R., staying in the East wouldn’t be the worst idea. 

Miami Heat 

The Heat recently missed out on Russell Westbrook, and while J.R. is obviously not Russ, he could help their roster that lacks a bit of shooting. Also, Swish in South Beach for a full season would be epic. 

Brooklyn Nets 

The Nets are a year away from contending with Kevin Durant likely not returning until the 2020 season, but adding J.R. with Kyrie and company would be fun. He’s got playoff experience and could add a needed pucnh off the bench. 

Golden State Warriors 

This would be the ultimate heel turn by J.R. if he went to the Warriors. As a Cavs fan, I’m not sure I could stomach this one.