J.R. Smith’s time in a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform is over. Smith is away from the team and both parties have mutually agreed to facilitate a trade.
J.R. Smith is reportedly unhappy about the direction of the team and his playing time. Smith is playing a near career-low 20.2 minutes per game. This drop in minutes has led to a career-low in points scored as Smith only averages 6.7 per game. Even when on the court Smith is not entirely all that effective. A 34.2 field goal percentage is the worst in his career. Smith’s 30.8 shooting percentage from deep is the second-worst mark of his career.
This season is Smith’s fifth season in with the Cavaliers. In previous seasons Smith was instrumental in the Cavaliers success and reaching The Finals four times. The trade of Kyrie Irving prior to last season caused a large amount of controversy and discussion about the internal discord of the franchise. Now without LeBron James on the team The Finals seem like a distant memory. Add in the fact that Kevin Love has been injured since the fourth game of the season the Cavaliers are the worst team in the league. Smith being unhappy with the departures of two star teammates and the poor play without the third is completely understandable.
While the Cavaliers attempt to find a trade partner Smith will remain away from the team. Smith will work out privately and maintain his fitness. In the meantime Cleveland will be without another player and have rely on the inconsistent production of others.
While it is frustrating to see another player want out of Cleveland, it is best to remember Smith for what he brought to the franchise. The production on the court and the entertainment off of it. Whether he is shirtless at the Cavaliers Championship parade or at the Browns first victory in what felt like an eternity, J.R. Smith will always be a Cleveland fan favorite.
