Josh Smith (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
NBA teams are being hesitant to sign veteran free agent Josh Smith, but there is a handful of title-contending teams that may need the service of J-Smoove.
Josh Smith remains unsigned, and there is so much to speculate on why teams do not consider inking a deal with the 30-year-old forward. Smith joined the Los Angeles Clippers last season before getting traded midseason to the Houston Rockets, in a season where he was barely a factor for both teams, only averaging 6.6 points on a dismal 34.3 shooting from the field.
However, Smith could still be a capable contributor for contending teams, despite a dip in his form in the past few seasons, and there are a few contenders who may consider adding the 12-year veteran.
Josh Smith to San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs tried to fill the hole left by Tim Duncan by adding Pau Gasol and David Lee into their frontcourt lineup. They were also able to add a defensive big man in Dewayne Dedmon, forming a frontcourt that could cause problems to other teams.
However, the four spot is relatively thin, with only Lee and Aldridge included in the rotation. Both are known to have immense offensive skills, but the duo also lack athleticism and defense. Signing Smith would cover up any of those flaws in the Spurs' frontcourt and add depth at the power forward position.
Josh Smith to Golden State Warriors
Signing talented veterans on a cheap deal has been a trend in the Bay Area during the offseason. While the addition of Kevin Durant may have cost the Warriors significant cap room, they were able to convince experienced players to join their Super Team for a cheap price, with a chance to win a championship as their selling point.
Smith, who would likely choose a contender as his next destination, would be a good fit playing for the Warriors. Offensively, he could fill the void left by Harrison Barnes as a second unit player, while also providing Golden State interior defense.
Smith would certainly come cheap if there is a possibility to sign him, and it is something the Warriors may need to explore to keep their bench productive.
Josh Smith to Cleveland Cavaliers
Smith joining LeBron James in Cleveland could be as ideal as the Cavs signing the veteran power forward.
The Cavs' core of stars led by James heads into the regular season intact and healthy, which still makes the defending champs a force to reckon with in the East. However, with a revamped Warriors emerging as a favorite for another trip in the NBA Finals, the Cavs may reconsider adding veteran help.
Smith could serve as a second unit spark for the Cavs, giving them a reliable scorer and allow their bench to play quicker. His versatility to defend power forwards would be essential for the Cavs, especially with Kevin Love not expected to be effective on the defensive end.
Smith may not play plenty of minutes if he joins the Cavs, but it is what would make him effective in Cleveland. Preserving his energy and skills could earn him major roles at certain games, especially during the postseason.
It remains to be seen whether the Cavs would truly consider acquiring Smith, but he is one of the few game-changer remaining in the market Cleveland should take risk at.
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