The standoff between the Cleveland Cavaliers and J.R. Smith finally came to a close when the two sides agreed to a four-year $57 million deal. With the final piece set, the Cavs can finally buckle down to business as they make preparations for their title-defense.
The deal practically satisfied that previous dish of Smith to get a $15 million annual salary. The Cavs previously held off in what many tied up to the luxury tax penalties Dan Gilbert and company had to face. Despite that, Smith stood by his demand with the aid of agent Rich Paul.
But the turning point for Smith may have been that potshot by LeBron James. For the second season in a row, James lamented the fact that the team is headed into training camp incomplete. Smith had the same issue last season but so is another Paul baby in Tristan Thompson, ESPN reported.
Ironically, James will be the first one from the Cavs to renegotiate in the coming years. The star guard signed a three-year deal worth $100 million where only the first two seasons are guaranteed. James is expected to opt out again by year 3 though it could all plainly be about money.
For J.R. Smith, it looks like he plans to settle down in Cleveland for a long time. He purchased a home between Cleveland and Akron, a sign that he plans to settle down and likely raise a family, Cleveland.com reported. At 31, it seems the proper thing to do for the swingman who vastly matured through the years.
Smith had heated stints with the Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks prior to joining the Cavs. Despite initial reservations, Smith proved he could be one of the league’s best if he focuses on playing pro ball, particularly from the outside.
Smith proved that last year during the 2016 NBA Finals. He hit the big shots in the deciding seventh game to help the Cavs complete a rare comeback after being down 1-3 against the Golden State Warriors.
Defending their title is the main prerogative for the Cavs this season though the road ahead may be a rough one. It all starts with the Golden State Warriors which beefed up tremendously with the addition of Kevin Durant.
J.R. Smith sheds more light into his recent signing in the video below.