The Boston Celtics have available cap space and have been linked to several players. Most are via trades and the big ones such as Gordon Hayward, Jahlil Okafor or even Greg Monroe. How about J.R. Smith?
By now most are aware that J.R. Smith has yet to be re-signed by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The belief is that he eventually will and it will happen once teammate LeBron James signs on the dotted line.
But the twist comes in the form of his asking salary. Smith is looking for a $15 million deal which means more luxury tax woes for David Griffin and company.
J.R. Smith’s current situation is no different from last year. He is likely among the last players to be brought back and everything will depend on the numbers. But will Smith accept?
From all accounts, J.R. Smith likely will. He has a good relationship with James and has become an important piece in the Cavs’ puzzle.
What if Celtics give him the $15 M?
For the sake of argument, what if the Boston Celtics can give J.R. Smith the money he is looking for? Would he move to Bean Town?
ESPN provides an interesting take on the J.R. Smith scenario though there are a lot of precedents. That would include Smith’s blend into coach Brad Stevens’ system and the Celtics roster.
There is no doubt that the Celtics could use a shooter like Smith. They also have the money to spend on Smith though it could mean renouncing their rights to Tyler Zeller. Comparing Smith and Zeller, the former is obviously way ahead.
Smith is one of the few top names in the free agent market but his fit into the Celtic’s system is a big question. The Celtics are aggressively looking to shop for more players and Smith could be an interesting option only if Danny Ainge sees something good out of it. A one-year deal perhaps?
