When we caught up from Smith in January (throwback to SLAM 143 when we photographed him on a course) to talk about his new golf podcast, Par 3, which he hosts alongside producer, actor and jewelry designer Ben Baller and Stephen Malbon, who co-founded Malbon Golf, he told SLAM that he got “hooked” on golf pretty quickly and soon developed a deep fascination with learning more about it and, specifically, how to improve his skillset. Back for SLAM 143, we even photographed Smith on a

“I tried to translate it to basketball,” Smith tells SLAM. “I really started learning how to work on certain skills as opposed to just trying to hit shots. I started working on my short game, started working on trying to work the ball left to right, right to left and different swings. [I started] watching a lot more videos looking at Tiger [Woods], watching Taylormade—those videos gave me a lesson here, lesson there, [but] everything else was pretty much self taught.”

Next thing Smith knew, he was all in: buying the gear, checking out different courses and thinking constantly about how to get better and better.

“At that point, I really realized I really had a problem,” he continues. “Because then I started going into different pro shops and started playing really, really good courses, or buying up all the gear—I got a closet right now that pretty much looks like a pro shop from different [stores] all over the country. And it’s just game that I really love…I feel like golf is a sport that you can always improve [in] and continuously get better. You never really have a cap.”

On the Par 3 podcast, not only will Smith, Ben Baller and Malbon dive into their personal journeys and how they’ve developed a love for the game, but they’ll also share hilarious commentary and dive deep into the culture of the golf from fashion and trends to some pretty wild stories, like Smith picking up a few pointers from the late, and great-Moses Malone. While there’s a lot of misconceptions surrounding golf, Par 3 is here to re-define what the “golf life” truly means by offering a unique perspective.

Check out the latest episode and be sure to subscribe here.

The post JR Smith is Hosting an Exciting New Golf Podcast, ‘Par 3,’ Alongside Ben Baller and Stephen Malbon appeared first on SLAM.

The pivot from being a professional hopper to a college student came after his former teammate, Ray Allen, a fellow avid golfer who Smith called a “great motivational speaker,” inspired Smith to challenge himself to get an education while the two were on a trip in the Dominican Republic.

“I was working like I was literally trying to make the league all over again,” Smith said per Complex. “It was fun as hell. When I got my first A in class, it was like me dunking on somebody or hitting a game-winner.”

Smith’s pivot gained more significance after his oldest daughter told him she was proud of him for going back to school, a moment that made Smith emotional.

The proud moment fulfilled a part of Smith’s purpose in pursuing a college degree. The former Sixth Man of the Year wanted to set an example for his daughters to “know they’re worth” that they can get a higher education no matter where they are in life.

“She looked at me and told me, ‘Daddy, I’m really happy you went back to school,’ I had to get up and walk away,” Smith said. “My oldest has seen it all. She’s seen the good and the bad. She’s been in the thick of it. So when she told me that, it really had me choked up.”

“It was for me but more importantly, what I’ve done was for them to understand you can… For one, you can always get your education no matter how old you are. It was also to understand your self-worth, especially for young Black women in this country.”

As J.R. Smith continues to evolve away from the game where he’s had great moments (two titles, 2013 Sixth Man of the Year) and massive blunders (Game 1 of the 2018 NBA Finals), Smith can move on knowing that he’s defying what people mischaracterize him as. No matter what anyone may think about the “100 percent fact” that the NBA has moved on from him, Smith has found his purpose.

The post J.R. Smith Talks Infamous Game 1 Moment and Relationship With Ray Allen appeared first on SLAM.

Smith played 16 years in the NBA after completely skipping college and was highly successful. After winning two NBA championships, he’s now a freshman walk-on who will be pursuing a degree in liberal arts.

“It’s still as nerve-wracking as shooting a free throw in front of 5,000 instead of making a 5-foot putt in front of three. So it all correlates the same for me,” said Smith in a recent virtual press conference. 

This gives Smith the opportunity to play for a HBCU, which was enticing to him when choosing where he wanted to begin this journey. 

With the college being located in Greensboro, North Carolina, Smith will ultimately end up going to school in the same state he originally was set to play college basketball at. Before skipping to go straight to the NBA, Smith was supposed to play at North Carolina under Roy Williams in ’04. 

The post JR Smith Officially Begins College Golf Career At North Carolina A&T appeared first on SLAM.

Appearing on CBS Sports’ All Things Covered podcast with Patrick Peterson and Bryant McFadden on Wednesday, Smith shared how different it felt to win the chip with the Lakers this season versus doing so with the Cavs in 2016. Not only that, but he revealed that he did in fact struggle emotionally with his new role.

“It’s fulfilling for me because it’s totally different. I was playing more during the first one and felt like I had a very important role in the game. In this situation, going through the playoffs and not really playing and trying to find my niche as a leader, as a veteran, trying to help the younger guys out in more of a coaching aspect of it, it was one of the hardest things I ever really had to do.

“I’m really sitting there watching from the sidelines, yelling for guys to be in the right position. It was nerve-wracking. So this one was almost as good as the first one. This two-time thing is feeling pretty good.” 

Smith averaged just 13.2 minutes per game in the bubble—the lowest of his career—and played only 75 minutes in the postseason. He did admit, however, that he didn’t expect to play 20-25 minutes this season while on a stacked Lakers’ roster.

After getting waived by the Cavaliers, Smith said he simply wanted to whatever the Lakers needed from him in order to win the chip.

“For me, it was like no matter what they throw at me, I’m going to accept it and try to be a master of that role. I knew I wasn’t going to come in and play 25 minutes a game and stuff like that because I hadn’t played in over a year, and they already had their core team set. I knew it wasn’t going to be a situation where I was going to come in and play a lot. 

“But more than anything for me, I left the game from my little hiatus with Cleveland on kind of a bad note, for me if anything, you always hear people say that want to go out a champion. I never wanted to walk away from the game as somebody who got waived. For one, I never wanted that on my resume. But then for it to happen, and for it to potentially be retirement after that, it never sat well with me. So my whole motivation to get back was to be in the situation to win a championship. So when I got in that position, no matter what role they threw at me, that was my main focus, to win the chip.” 

As for the argument that Smith didn’t earn his championship ring, Smith had words for the haters, too:

“I see a lot of people who say, quote-unquote, ‘You didn’t earn it.’ That for me, more than anything, I felt like I earned everything I ever got. I feel like I put my blood sweat and tears to my craft and to every opportunity that was presented to me, regardless of who can vouch for you or whatever, you still have to walk through that door and put that work in.

“For [the] people who feel like they’ve given me a second chance or [I got an] opportunity from another player or because I’m friends with somebody, this person or that person, nah. Whether that happened or not, when I got there, I showed my ass to stay there…I’ve been fortunate and blessed to play with great players, for a lot of people they look at my career, to me, as a joke and that’s something I take personal.”

Smith then went on highlight teammate LeBron James—whom he has had a longstanding friendship with despite on-court mishaps (y’all remember what happened during Game 1 of the 2018 NBA Finals).

Looking back at his time on the Cavs and the Lakers, Smith was then asked who would win in a matchup, the 2016 Cavs versus the current Lakers’ roster.

“I think the size that the Lakers have, we just didn’t have in Cleveland,” he said at the end of the podcast. “In Cleveland, we were more grittier, we played a little harder, we were much nastier defensively. But the size with this Lakers team with [Anthony Davis] and Dwight [Howard], and being able to change the lineups with Markieff [Morris], we just weren’t that versatile [in Cleveland]. We could play multiple different ways in L.A., but in Cleveland, we only had to play one way.

“I think the Lakers team was just too big.” 

The post JR Smith on Lakers Role: ‘It Was One of The Hardest Things I Ever Really Had To Do’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith isn’t the only high-ceiling veteran that the Lakers are kicking the tires on heading into the final stretch of the season. Los Angeles also intends to work out Dion Waiters later today.

In Smith the Lakers could add a bench scorer with championship experience and ties to LeBron James. The 34-year-old played in Cleveland from 2014 until 2019.

When dialed in Smith is an above average deep threat and has shot north of .375 in four of his last six seasons.

The post J.R. Smith to Work Out With Lakers This Week appeared first on SLAM.

“We’ve all messed up,” said Smith in an interview with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, while recalling how he infamously ran the clock out following an offensive rebound despite the game being tied at 107.

JR was re-assured by then-Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue that he made a “basketball play and it didn’t work out.”

Per CBS Sports (via Showtime‘s video podcast “All The Smoke”):

“If it’s my fault and you want to pin it on me? All right, cool,” Smith said. “I hit [Tyronn Lue] that night and I was like, ‘Bro, I don’t even know what to say.’ He was like, ‘Bro, what are you talking about? You made a basketball play and it didn’t work out. It happens.’ “

LeBron James, for instance, revealed after the series that he suffered a self-inflicted hand injury when he punched a blackboard after the game. Smith spoke very positively about James in the interview, and James himself has never blamed Smith publicly for the play. Smith doesn’t seem to blame himself either. As he explained, he got over the mistake quickly.

“I laughed about that sh– that night … I’m not a person to hold on to sh–. I’m not going to hold on to no grudges,” Smith said. “I’ll never forget it but players f— up, it just so happened that mine was in the Finals. … We’ve all messed up.”

Related ‘Honest Mistake’: JR Smith Looks Back on Game 1 Gaffe

The post ‘We’ve All Messed up’: JR Smith Shrugs Off 2018 NBA Finals Gaffe appeared first on SLAM.

The Cleveland Cavaliers waived the veteran guard Monday, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.

Smith, 33, only suited up in 11 games last season, taking a leave absence from the Cavs in November.

Per ESPN:

The Cavs have been looking to trade Smith since November because only a portion of his $15.6 million salary for next season is guaranteed.

The team worked out a deal with Smith to extend his guarantee date from June 30 to July 15, boosting his guarantee from $3.9 million to $4.4 million, but was unable to find a trade.

By waiving Smith and stretching the guaranteed money, the Cavs will move below the luxury tax for the 2019-20 season.

Related ‘I Don’t Think the Goal is to Win’: JR Smith Says Cavs are Tanking

The post Report: J.R. Smith ‘Unlikely’ to Join the Los Angeles Lakers appeared first on SLAM.

In addition to waiving Smith and his $15.7 million deal, the Cavaliers have elected to spread his guaranteed sum of $4.4 million over the course of three seasons via the stretch provision.

Although Cleveland has been on the Cavs payroll all this time, he hasn’t been around the franchise since early last season. The team elected to hang onto the swingman despite their pivot into a rebuild because his contract was deemed a valuable asset and possible trade chip.

The Cavaliers were eager to shop Smith’s deal around in hopes of landing a notable asset but ultimately elected to take advantage the financial benefit of his non-guaranteed deal for themselves.

By dropping Smith and stretching his minimal guaranteed sum over three years the Cavs were able to sneak under the luxury tax.

The post Cavaliers Release J.R. Smith To Waivers appeared first on SLAM.

The Cleveland Cavaliers thought that they might be able to dangle J.R. Smith’s expiring, non-guaranteed contract and buy their way back into the first-round of the 2019 NBA Draft, Joe Vardon of The Athletic writes, but the franchise didn’t end up finding a taker.

Smith’s contract is an intriguing one and a tool that a team looking to lower their payroll would be happy to use. On paper, Smith is owed $15.7 million for 2019-20 but only $3.9 million of that deal would be guaranteed if Smith is released prior to June 30.

Cavs general manager Koby Altman intends to investigate every possible opportunity to unload the contract while netting an asset but Vardon writes that teams have requested that Cleveland take back a contract, something that isn’t possible given that the Cavs are flirting with the luxury tax on their own.

Without taking into consideration the cap hit of incoming lottery pick Darius Garland, the Cavs already have enough in guaranteed money to approach next year’s luxury tax line.

Though rostered and employed, Smith hasn’t actually been with the Cavs since November.

The post Unable To Land A First Rounder Cavs May Waive J.R. Smith appeared first on SLAM.

JR Smith will no longer be actively with the Cavs, a league source tells me. He is working with the team to trade him, and in the meantime will work out on his own

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) November 20, 2018

The breakup is ‘amicable,’ the source said, and the two sides are not working on a buyout at this time https://t.co/MF6zcKc2Wk

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) November 20, 2018

Smith, 33, has been open about his desire to be moved. He recently admitted to Jason Lloyd of The Athletic that Cleveland (2-13) is tanking.

“I don’t think the goal is to win,” Smith said. “The goal isn’t to go out there and try to get as many wins as you can. I think the goal is to develop and lose to get lottery picks. I think that was always the plan.”

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JR Smith: ‘It’s Hard to Be Somewhere Where They Know They Don’t Want You’

The post Report: JR Smith Will No Longer Actively Be With the Cavaliers appeared first on SLAM.

And the 33-year-old’s trade request still stands.

JR Smith tells The Athletic the Cavs are tanking and reiterates he wants out. With LeBron's return game up next, those left behind are still processing their new reality in their own ways. https://t.co/Cu1qYPljGb

— Jason Lloyd (@ByJasonLloyd) November 20, 2018

Per The Athletic:

“I don’t think the goal is to win,” Smith said.

“The goal isn’t to go out there and try to get as many wins as you can. I think the goal is to develop and lose to get lottery picks. I think that was always the plan.”

Smith is in his 15th season and making $14.7 million; he has no relationship with Cavs GM Koby Altman and doesn’t want a buyout.

“I don’t want my legacy to be remembered like that in Cleveland.

“I don’t think that’s fair to the people I see every single day walking around the arena. I don’t think that’s fair to the trainers or equipment guys. … I just look at it differently than being traded. I don’t like the statement of getting bought out.”

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JR Smith: ‘It’s Hard to Be Somewhere Where They Know They Don’t Want You’

The post ‘I Don’t Think the Goal is to Win’: JR Smith Says Cavs are Tanking appeared first on SLAM.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver says he hopes to avoid having to punish Smith.

#Cavaliers' J.R. Smith hopes to be traded, but says he declined suggestion to leave the team https://t.co/dDzMuWmeiR

— Marla Ridenour (@MRidenourABJ) November 1, 2018

The 33-year-old says the Cavs no longer want him, but won’t consider taking a leave of absence while the team works on a potential trade.

Per the Akron Beacon Journal:

“It’s potentially finable … We have rules against players asking for trades, but in the first instance we look for organizations to work through those issues,” Silver said after the announcement that Cleveland would host the 2022 NBA All-Star Game. “I spoke to Koby Altman and I know he’s talking directly to J.R. My hunch is that he’ll find a way to deal with it and it won’t be necessary for the league office to get involved. You all know me, too. It’s a last resort to be sanctioning or disciplining a player.”

Smith, 33, said it’s hard for him to put on a Cavs jersey every day after being dropped from the rotation, but he will help young players who seek him out.

“I can’t do that to these fans, I can’t do it to the city,” Smith said. “The way the city embraced me, the fans embraced me, the relationship I have with them, I can’t do that to them. It’s not about me, it’s not about who wants me here and who doesn’t want me here. For me it’s all about the fans.”

Smith said it’s tough to come to work, but he has plenty of support during a tough time.

“It’s hard to be somewhere where they know they don’t want you there. You gotta go in there and put on this front and act like you’re so happy, regardless,” he said. “We all make a ton of money. That’s not what this is about. I can’t even be competitive anymore. For somebody in my shoes, that’s the hardest part.”

Related
JR Smith Wants Trade from the Cavs

The post JR Smith: ‘It’s Hard to Be Somewhere Where They Know They Don’t Want You’ appeared first on SLAM.

During shootaround on Thursday, Smith told reporters that the Cavs’ front office knows he wants out. “They don’t want me here, so they obviously know,” he said.

Smith, 33, has fallen out of the rotation this season with the Cavs opting to focus on youth.

He clearly is unhappy with how Cavs management has handled the situation. “To not even look me in my face and tell me. That’s disrespectful,” he said.

He has roughly two years and $30.4 million left on his deal.

Reporter: "Are you hoping for a trade [from the Cavs]?"

J.R. Smith: "Yeah." pic.twitter.com/SJNB0JRB8L

— Jordan Heck (@JordanHeckFF) November 1, 2018

RELATED:
Report: JR Smith Considered Time Away from Cavs Over Playing Time

The post JR Smith Wants Trade from the Cavs 👀 appeared first on SLAM.

Smith, 33, was listed as a “DNP-CD” as the Cavs picked up their first win of the season Tuesday night.

Cavs finally got a win tonight. But in other news they're in an unprecedented stalemate with their acting coach, are managing a volatile situation with JR Smith & have started gauging trade market for Kyle Korver (w/@wojespn): https://t.co/ZLpdOFyTiL

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) October 31, 2018

False! They gave me the option an I chose to stay! https://t.co/MMjMDiUdHA

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) October 31, 2018

Larry Drew, meanwhile, is “very disappointed” that his contractual situation remains in limbo after he took over coaching duties for Tyronn Lue this week.

Per ESPN:

Drew said he was told the Cavs might bring in a new head coach from the outside, but the team has not yet been aggressive in hiring one, sources said. Drew, who is one of the league’s highest-paid assistants at nearly $1 million this season, is seeking an adjustment to his contract that would guarantee him additional money in return for assuming the interim job. His deal is up in July.

“There are no updates, which I’m very disappointed about,” Drew said Tuesday. “I’m going to be professional and I’m going to do my job. It’s been close to 72 hours.”

While that situation plays out, the Cavs had to manage another issue on the team Tuesday with veteran guard JR Smith. For the second time this season, Smith was informed he would be removed from the rotation and not receive guaranteed playing time, sources said. Smith was upset by the news and considered taking some time away from the team, sources said. Smith decided to stay for the time being, but he didn’t play in Tuesday night’s 136-114 win over the Atlanta Hawks.

Two games into the season, Smith and [Kyle] Korver were told they would be out of the rotation, sources said. Then-coach Ty Lue reversed that decision and elected to reinsert them into the lineup. The team lost its next three games, and Lue was fired.

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Report: Cavs Players ‘Pissed’ Over Tyronn Lue Firing

The post Report: JR Smith Considered Time Away from Cavs Over Playing Time appeared first on SLAM.

Kyle Kuzma, last year’s All-Drip Rookie of the Year, made an appearance in the “Best of the Rest” with All-Drip Second Team member and #DadDrip king LeBron James.

The Washington Wizards (John Wall, Kelly Oubre Jr., Green) and the Los Angeles Lakers (James, Kuzma, Michael Beasley) had the most players on this week’s Fits of the Week, with each squad having three representatives.

—

To keep up with the NBA’s Survival of the Fitted, follow @LeagueFits on Instagram 

The post Fits of the Week: Russell Westbrook is Making Overalls Cool Again 🌊 appeared first on SLAM.

Lue and general manager Koby Altman were reportedly at odds over playing time for the team’s youngsters and veterans.

Cavs' players are 'pissed' over Lue's firing, sources tell me. You're seeing it play out on social media. https://t.co/l4ORmbUHPg

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) October 28, 2018

Lue, 41, amassed a record of 128-63 (.606) in three seasons with the Cavs.

Tyronn Lue statement obtained by @espn @TheUndefeated pic.twitter.com/Cj7JdsYS12

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpearsESPN) October 28, 2018

From the press release:

Cavaliers Head Coach Tyronn Lue was released on Sunday by the team. Associate Head Coach Larry Drew has been named interim head coach.

“This was a very difficult decision. It is especially so, considering Coach Lue’s time with us over the last four years, including four straight trips to the NBA Finals,” said Altman. “We have respect and great admiration for Ty, not only as a coach, but a person. We thank him for the many ways he has contributed to our success, wish him the best and he will always be remembered for leading a very special Cavs team back against the odds to win the title in 2016. This is a different team equation, though, and one that we felt needed a different voice and approach that required this change.”

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Tyronn Lue: ‘It’s Hard to Replace LeBron James’

The post Report: Cavs Players ‘Pissed’ Over Tyronn Lue Firing appeared first on SLAM.

During a first-quarter scuffle, Smart shoved Smith from behind after Smith and Aron Baynes got tangled up.

Smart was ejected while Smith was assessed with a technical foul.

https://youtu.be/RwwTf6YvoXM

After the game, the players continued to throw barbs at one another through the media.

Smart told reporters that he gestured for Smith to meet him in the back. “I told him to come to the back. All that on the court, we can handle that off the court,” Smart said.

Smart: "I told him to come to the back. […] JR knows where I'm at" (via @NBCSBoston) pic.twitter.com/JX4plInoub

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 7, 2018

Smith said that Smart flops too much to be tough.

“He leads the League in flops. You can’t flop as much as you do and then be tough,” Smith said. “And then, you start slinging your teammates. You didn’t come to play basketball today. You know you didn’t want to play.

RELATED:
Marcus Smart Ejected After Scuffle with JR Smith

The post NBA Fines Marcus Smart, JR Smith after Preseason Altercation appeared first on SLAM.

Smart only appeared in three minutes of game time.

After the game, Smart told reporters that he gestured for Smith to meet him in the back. “I told him to come to the back. All that on the court, we can handle that off the court,” Smart said.

Smart: "I told him to come to the back. […] JR knows where I'm at" (via @NBCSBoston) pic.twitter.com/JX4plInoub

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) October 7, 2018

The post Marcus Smart Ejected After Scuffle with JR Smith appeared first on SLAM.

“I don’t talk to the police,” says Smith.

#Cavs JR Smith tells @clevelanddotcom that he hasn't contacted league office about covering up Supreme tattoo: "I don't talk to the police" https://t.co/JUJ18cYCEs

— Chris Fedor (@ChrisFedor) October 2, 2018

Per Cleveland.com:

“No. For what?” he asked when approached by cleveland.com in the locker room at TD Garden in Boston Tuesday night. “I don’t talk to the police. That doesn’t do anything for me.”

A league spokesman told cleveland.com that “NBA rules prohibit players from displaying any commercial logos or corporate insignia on their body or in their hair.”

“They just said it’s branding,” Smith told cleveland.com. “But I’m not the only person with brands on me so it’s more than that. I know that. They know that. Everyone knows that.”

Smith didn’t mention specific names. He said even though some players have talked about this issue amongst themselves, he doesn’t want to “tell on anyone.”

His indignation notwithstanding, Smith plans to cover up the suddenly-controversial tat.

Per ESPN:

“I’m not giving them money that could go to my kids,” Smith told ESPN. “I was looking into (my rights), but the players’ association just texted me, and you know what? I’m not going to put money in their pockets. Not a chance.”

Smith insisted he did not have an endorsement agreement with Supreme and decided to get the tattoo on his own. He has complained about the NBA’s stance in recent days on Instagram.

“It was just something that I wanted to do,” he said. “There’s a lot of other things going on in this world (the league) could be worried about besides a tattoo, but it’s their league. They can do what they want.”

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NBA to Fine JR Smith for ‘Supreme’ Tattoo Unless It’s Covered

The post ‘I Don’t Talk to the Police’: JR Smith Won’t Discuss Supreme Tattoo With NBA appeared first on SLAM.

Sources on @TheAthleticNBA @WatchStadium: NBA informed Cleveland’s J.R. Smith he would be fined per game during season for “Supreme” tattoo on his leg, unless it is covered, and Smith plans to have conversations with league about situation.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 29, 2018

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoUhy1PnKpg/?hl=en&taken-by=teamswish

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoUmzDPAAvV/?hl=en&taken-by=slamonline

FREE THE ‘PREME.

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‘Honest Mistake’: JR Smith Looks Back on Game 1 Gaffe

The post NBA to Fine JR Smith for ‘Supreme’ Tattoo Unless It’s Covered appeared first on SLAM.

Smith says the Cavs continued to have his back following the calamity.

Despite what people may think, ⁦@TheRealJRSmith⁩ is at a great place in his life. My ⁦@TheUndefeated⁩ interview with the most misunderstood man in the NBA: https://t.co/zEqgVeKDlX

— Jesse Washington (@jessewashington) September 25, 2018

The 33-year-old vet is aiming to become a mentor for his younger teammates in Cleveland.

Per The Undefeated:

“It was tough, but it was the same after Game 2, 3 and 4. I didn’t take it no harder than those losses just because I made a mistake,” Smith said. “We all make mistakes. For my teammates to know that and have my back, [Game 1] wasn’t that bad. Talked to my coaches, everybody stood behind me 100 percent. The main thing was, OK, granted, you didn’t shoot the ball, but what if you ain’t get the rebound? Then what? We still would have been in the same situation. I could have shot and missed. Then what?

“I mean, it’s an honest mistake. People make mistakes all the time.”

Smith wants to play another six seasons and make it to 20 years in the NBA. But his career goals now reach beyond the court.

“More than anything, I want to help the younger guys,” Smith says. “More than guys helped me when I was coming up, you know? Help them with managing time. Most often, basketball will take care itself. You got talent, you got skill, that will take care of its own. But, just off the court, you know? Managing time, teaching the rights from wrongs.”

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The post ‘Honest Mistake’: JR Smith Looks Back on Game 1 Gaffe appeared first on SLAM.

Smith, 32, will return to Manhattan Criminal Court later this year to face a criminal mischief charge.

TMZ captured video of Smith walking in to Manhattan’s 10th Precinct on Friday morning.

RELATED:
Kevin Durant: Warriors Knew Series Was Over After JR Smith’s Blunder

The post JR Smith Facing Criminal Mischief Charge appeared first on SLAM.

Michael Beasley wants everyone to stop judging him and certain other players pic.twitter.com/nGNgZX5vOa

— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) July 23, 2018

“If everyone does their job right and stop judging some players, me mainly, you’ll figure out that guys like me, Nick Young, JR Smith and Lance Stephenson and guys like that actually know how to play basketball, actually know how to basketball games, actually know how to win basketball games and actually know how to get along with others.”

Young excitedly backed up Beasley’s sentiment.

Love it !!! pic.twitter.com/X6B7myTG3z

— Nick Young (@NickSwagyPYoung) July 24, 2018

The Los Angeles Lakers inked the 29-year-old to a one-year deal this summer, and Beasley thinks the team has a chance to be special.

Beasley says new Lakers vets can form solid core around LeBron. @gregbeacham https://t.co/Vg1lB83Lyd

— AP Sports (@AP_Sports) July 24, 2018

Per the AP:

“For there to even be a narrative (about problems with) personalities in this room is judgment enough for me, and I just don’t want to be a part of it,” Beasley said.

[Magic] Johnson provided Beasley with a detailed description of his likely role with the Lakers. Beasley also is willing to be a vocal leader to the Lakers’ gifted young players, including Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart.

“I think they’re all special in their own way,” Beasley said. “I think Josh Hart, Ingram, Kuz, Ball, I think they can all at some point in their careers be All-Stars and be leaders of their team. I think Luke [Walton] did a great job with those guys, especially in the second half of the season, getting those guys to play and getting those guys to buy into what he believes in. … I feel like they can be anything they want to be.”

The post Michael Beasley Doesn’t Want to Be Judged appeared first on SLAM.

“We knew we kinda broke them a little bit,” Durant says of his team’s attitude en route to a four-game sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

KD plans to re-up with Golden State this summer, and throws cold water on the idea of LeBron James joining the reigning NBA champions.

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Video of Dejected Cavaliers Bench After Game 1 Mishap

The post Kevin Durant: Warriors Knew Series Was Over After JR Smith’s Blunder appeared first on SLAM.

The night started off promising for the Cavaliers as they jumped out to an early 16-4 lead highlighted by LeBron James’ monstrous self alley-oop. James’ Nike LeBron 15 PEs on the night were done in a grey BattleKnit and contrasted with a gold midsole and wine accents. JR Smith got off to a solid start in a pair of PE Nike Kyrie 4s as he finished the first half with 10 points. Unfortunately for Smith and the Cavs, he’d only score three more in the second half of play.

Other notable kicks on the night included the Nike Kobe A.D. Mid PEs worn by Andre Iguodala in his first Finals’ appearance this year, Nick Young’s loud adidas D Rose 3.5 “The Spark” and Steph Curry donning both the black and white colorways of his “Takeover” Under Armour Curry 5.

Photos via Getty Images

The post 2018 NBA Finals Kicks of the Night: Game 3 appeared first on SLAM.

Sitting on the bench preceding overtime, LeBron James asked Lue if they had any timeouts remaining, and his reaction says it all. Skip to the 10-second mark in the video below to see James’ reaction to Lue’s answer:

"The Moment" pic.twitter.com/YDa5DcfsVM

— David Astramskas (@redapples) June 4, 2018

The post Video of Dejected Cavaliers Bench After Game 1 Mishap appeared first on SLAM.

Cavaliers' J.R. Smith struggles in Game 2 loss after Game 1 blunder. https://t.co/ZybHNt3tGD

— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) June 4, 2018

Smith finished with 5 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers fell into an 0-2 series hole in the Golden State Warriors’ 122-103 win.

Dubs fans gave JR a standing ovation when he was introduced, and sarcastically serenaded him with “MVP” chants for his epic Game 1 blunder.

JR Smith on getting MVP chants: “I liked it. I’d rather them do that than not acknowledge me” pic.twitter.com/yjiuv6GBHI

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) June 4, 2018

Per the AP:

“Terrible,” Smith said of his performance. “I have to shoot the ball better. I have to defend better.”

[LeBron] James and coach Tyronn Lue raved about Smith’s ability to bounce back from tough moments but that didn’t happen Sunday.

“Not too much affects JR. I don’t think so,” Lue said. “He made shots. He had some good looks he didn’t make, but throughout the course of the game I don’t he think he really got shots in a row to kind of get into a rhythm. So that was kind of tough on him. But we have confidence in JR, and he’s just got to continue taking his shots.”

The post JR Smith Says He Was ‘Terrible’ in Game 2 vs Warriors appeared first on SLAM.

“After thinking about it a lot the last 24 hours,” he said. “I can’t say I was sure of anything at that point.”

JR Smith clarifies what was going through his mind at the end of regulation in Game 1.#GameTime | #NBAFinals pic.twitter.com/Kp6XAWCXSm

— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 2, 2018

Smith maintained that the Cavs remain optimistic heading into Game 2 on Sunday.

Though JR “took the loss as hard as anybody,” according to LeBron James, he has demonstrated an ability to bounce back in the past:

LeBron on JR Smith’s ability to bounce back.#GameTime | #NBAFinals pic.twitter.com/ITFMBUTpup

— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 2, 2018

RELATED
JR Smith: ‘I Knew it Was Tied’

The post JR Smith Talks About the End of Regulation in Game 1 appeared first on SLAM.

Smith told skeptical reporters he was simply finding space for an open shot (or to call timeout.)

JR Smith says he knew the game was tied at the end of regulation. Was preparing for a timeout. pic.twitter.com/vQWVqL7Mmx

— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) June 1, 2018

As one might imagine, no one was buying it, including the Golden State Warriors, who prevailed 124-114 over Cleveland in overtime.

Draymond Green: “You gotta know the score.” And then wait until you see his face when he finds out J.R. Smith claimed he knew the score was tied. pic.twitter.com/WgDhgoK0NL

— The Athletic (@TheAthleticSF) June 1, 2018

LeBron James didn’t understand his teammate’s decision-making, and Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue said Smith lost track of the score.

Per Cleveland.com:

“If I thought we were ahead, I would have just held on to the ball and let them foul me,” Smith said.

It looked like Smith didn’t know the score. He even appeared to say on the court after it happened that “I thought we were up” as [LeBron] James was yelling at him.

“I thought we were all aware of what was going on,” James said. “That’s my view. So I don’t know what JR was thinking.”

Lue first said Smith thought the Cavs were ahead, and later clarified to cleveland.com that he hadn’t spoken with Smith.

“I mean, who knows if JR would have made the lay-up anyway, so it was tough,” Lue said. “You know, he had a little — he could have had a little floor, somebody was there. Then you think about calling the time out. But LeBron was open for a second, and it just happened too fast.”

The post JR Smith: ‘I Knew it Was Tied’ appeared first on SLAM.

It’ll go down as a 124-114 overtime win for the Warriors over the Cavaliers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, but it didn’t come without its share of controversy, bizarre decisions, and chippiness in the final seconds.

Of course none of that would have even mattered if LeBron James didn’t score 51 points to keep his team in the game down the stretch. James was phenomenal, even by his standards, as he scored his personal NBA Finals career high on 19-32 shooting with eight rebounds and eight assists.

Bron hears you counting his team out. (via @Cavs) pic.twitter.com/D1iM4D87s0

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) June 1, 2018

One of those baskets came on an and-one layup with 50 seconds to go, which put Cleveland up two. On the ensuing possession, James stepped in front of Kevin Durant and appeared to draw an offensive foul — at least that was the initial call. Then the officials went to the monitor to see if James was in the restricted area. He was not, but after review, the call was reversed anyway, and James was assessed a shooting foul. Durant promptly tied the game from the line.

33-year-old LeBron James steps in to take a charge in the #NBAFinals

WHAT. A. TIME. #WhateverItTakes vs. #DubNation pic.twitter.com/jH7Xebr5Xc

— Hashtag Basketball (@hashBasketball) June 1, 2018

The Cavs still had a chance to win.

Down one with 4.7 seconds left, George Hill went to the line. He made the first to tie the game, but missed the second. Fortunately for him, JR Smith was there for the offensive rebound. But then…

WOW. We’re going to overtime. pic.twitter.com/1YNEniJo1d

— ESPN (@espn) June 1, 2018

Smith appeared to think the Cavs were up by a point at the time and tried to dribble out the clock before realizing his blunder.

It was too late. The game went to overtime, where the Warriors dominated from start to finish. Emotions boiled over in the final seconds as Draymond Green and Tristan Thompson got into it.

Draymond trolling and Tristan Thompson having none of it (via @cjzero) pic.twitter.com/wL35RSDAjV

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) June 1, 2018

It made for an electric finish to a wild game. Stephen Curry had 29 points and nine assists to lead the Warriors and Durant scored 26 more. Game 2 will take place Sunday evening at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

The post Warriors Outlast Cavs In Overtime To Take Wild Game 1 appeared first on SLAM.

"We've got to be tougher. I think they're playing tougher than we are."

Ty Lue on the Celtics.#GameTime pic.twitter.com/xz0lEvYPui

— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 16, 2018

“We have to be tougher,” Lue said.

“I think they’re playing tougher than we are. We’re seeing that. They’re being physical. They’re gooning the game up, and we have to do the same thing. We have to be tougher mentally and physically.”

The C’s complitely dominated Cleveland’s backcourt in Tuesday night’s 107-94 win, with JR Smith and George Hill being outscored 41-3 by Jaylen Brown and Terry Rozier.

Smith, who avoided additional punishment for his flagrant foul on Al Horford, didn’t agree that Boston is the tougher team.

Per the AP:

Smith’s shoddy performance in Game 2 — he missed all seven shots and committed a flagrant 1 foul in 27 forgettable minutes — underscored a startling disparity between Cleveland’s and Boston’s starting backcourts that allowed the fearless Celtics to withstand a brilliant, 42-point effort by LeBron James and take a 2-0 series lead.

“I don’t think tougher,” Smith said afterward, showing better defensive instincts than during the game.

“They made shots, we missed shots at the end of the day. We had some good looks, they didn’t fall. For them playing on their home court, they fell. It’s a matter for us to bounce back, go home, try and get (win) two, even the series up and come back here.”

The post Tyronn Lue: Celtics ‘Gooning the Game Up’ appeared first on SLAM.

Marcus Smart quickly came to Horford’s defense, getting in the face of Smith and sparking a minor skirmish:

The NBA opted not to discipline Smith for the foul, according to a report from ESPN‘s Adrian Wojnarowski:

The NBA will not discipline Cleveland’s JR Smith for the foul on Boston’s Al Horford in Game 2 of Eastern Conference Finals, league source tells ESPN.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 16, 2018

You agree with that decision or should JR have been penalized?

RELATED
Smart: JR Smith Is Known For Dirty Plays

The post Should JR Smith Have Been Disciplined For This Foul On Al Horford? 🤔 appeared first on SLAM.

Celtics guard Marcus Smart came to his teammate’s defense, exchanging words and shoves with Smith after the play.

After the game, Smart told reporters that dirty plays like this are nothing new for Smith.

“He’s known for it, especially playing against us,” Smart said.

“That's not the first time JR has done some dirty stuff. He's known for it."

Marcus Smart is heated over JR Smith’s flagrant foul in the fourth quarter (via @DefPenHoops) pic.twitter.com/Gyz33U0NLo

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 16, 2018

“That’s not the first time JR has done some dirty stuff, especially playing against us. He’s known for it, especially playing against us. We know that.

“So you know, it’s like a bully, you keep letting a bully keep picking on you, he’s going to pick on you until you finally stand up.”

RELATED:
JR Smith: ‘I Don’t Want the Opposing Fans to Like Me’

The post Smart: JR Smith Is Known For Dirty Plays appeared first on SLAM.

Marcus Smart was ready to throw #ThemHands after JR Smith pushed Al Horford from behind (via @DefPenHoops) pic.twitter.com/KLczyvM32m

— SLAM Magazine (@SLAMonline) May 16, 2018

Smith says refs made the right call, adding that he enjoys when opposing fans get upset with him.

JR Smith on the "F— You JR" chant in Boston: "I love it. I don’t want the opposing fans to like me. That’s not why I’m here. They can chant and scream all they want, it actually makes me feel better about myself. They know me."

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) May 16, 2018

Smith finished with zero points on 0-for-7 shooting as the Cleveland Cavaliers fell into a 2-0 hole in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Per Cleveland.com:

“It was a good call. I blatantly pushed him,” Smith said. “It wasn’t like I was trying to lowbridge him or something to make sure he didn’t get it. It was a good, hard foul. I can understand why they gave me a flagrant.”

[Marcus] Smart, who was also assessed a technical for mixing it up with Smith following the Horford shove, said it was a dirty play.

“I just looked at it, Al is a defenseless person,” Smart said. “He’s in the air. He can’t control how his body goes, and he’s not even looking, and you go and take two hands to the back, that’s a dirty shot. You just can’t allow that to keep happening. That’s not the first time JR has done some dirty stuff, especially playing against us. He’s known for it, especially playing against us. We know that.

“So you know, it’s like a bully, you keep letting a bully keep picking on you, he’s going to pick on you until you finally stand up, and that’s what I tried to do. One of my guys was down, and I took offense to it.”

The post JR Smith: ‘I Don’t Want the Opposing Fans to Like Me’ appeared first on SLAM.

Korver, however, admits that being a spectator is an easy trap to fall into when playing alongside LeBron.

Inside the weird, devastating, completely off-ball two-man game that helped revive Cleveland's offense and give the Cavs an option beyond, "LeBron, please score": https://t.co/tJeOo2v7bD

— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) May 9, 2018

And while it may be easy to dismiss and laugh at “the other Cavs,” they stepped up in their second-round sweep of the Toronto Raptors.

Per ESPN:

[Kevin] Love and Korver are second and third, respectively, on the team in postseason scoring. Cleveland piled up 125 points per 100 possessions against Toronto in 99 minutes with LeBron, Love and Korver on the floor, and outscored the Raptors by 41 points over that time, per NBA.com. Korver and Love are 50-of-117 combined from deep — 43 percent — in the playoffs.

When Love feels like a participant, and not a bystander, he tends to play with more spirit on both ends. “We can’t just stand and watch LeBron,” Korver says. “That’s a trap we all fall into. It’s fine to do that sometimes. But we have to stay involved.”

The post Kyle Korver: ‘We Can’t Just Stand and Watch LeBron’ appeared first on SLAM.

After dropping three straight games to the Celtics, the 76ers needed to make a drastic change to keep their season alive. The change wasn’t what most expected, but Brent Brown’s decision to insert TJ McConnell into the starting lineup proved to be the difference.

McConnell started strong and his play never faltered, finishing the night with 19 points, seven rebounds, five assists and a plus-minus of +18 in 39 minutes. He was also the only 76er to shoot at least 50 percent from the field, shooting 9-f0r-12 from the field.

Although the 76ers and Celtics already have a long-standing rivalry, Terry Rozier and Joel Embiid added a little to spice to things. After getting into a scuffle that resulted in double technicals, Embiid went on to blast Rozier after the game for being too short to connect when throwing #ThemHands.

Jayson Tatum scored a team-high 20 points for the Celtics.

SCARY TERRY AND JOEL READY TO GIVE #THEMHANDS (via @TheRenderNBA) https://t.co/hZjnARuNAn

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 7, 2018

Jayson Tatum got ‘eeeeeeeem (via @celtics) https://t.co/W1OVfnfNFw

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 7, 2018

Joel Embiid: “(Terry Rozier) tried to punch me twice. Too bad he’s so short he couldn’t get to my face.” (via @BenGolliver) pic.twitter.com/ksNwaoFI84

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 8, 2018

Ever since the Toronto Raptors tied up the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals at 2-2, LeBron James and his Cavaliers have been dominant. Monday night was no different as Cleveland cruised to their 10th straight postseason win over Toronto and secured a spot in this year’s Eastern Conference Finals.

With “The Other Cavaliers” being a hot topic on the Twitter streets before the game, James’ supporting cast stepped up. as J.R. Smith and Kyle Korver hit every one of their 3-point shots in the first half. Kevin Love caught fire in the third, scoring 12 of his 23 points.

The King finished the night with 29 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds.

It was a rough ending for Toronto’s all-star duo: Kyle Lowry mustered up only five points and DeMar DeRozan was ejected for a flagrant foul on Jordan Clarkson.

Jelly Fam LeBron (via @nbatv) pic.twitter.com/1MMi9zgnra

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 8, 2018

Yep LeBron def has all six infinity stones already (via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/rPNhFVasAo

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 8, 2018

The post Post Up: Cavaliers Complete Sweep, Sixers Bounce Back Against Celtics appeared first on SLAM.

During practice on Friday, Smith explained that Chris Bosh faced a similar situation alongside LeBron James in Miami (starting at 1:59):

Why do you think Kevin has been such a target for criticism over the past couple of years?

JR: “I think that’s the… That’s almost like the Chris Bosh Syndrome that Bron had with him in Miami.

“When things are going good, we going to give the credit to Bron. When things are going bad, we going to point the finger at the next in line. That’s just the way it is with playing with him.”

RELATED:
Kevin Love: LeBron James Predicted His Ridiculous Game 2 Shots

The post JR Smith: Kevin Love Experiencing ‘The Chris Bosh Syndrome’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith makes an argument for why he believes LBJ surpassed MJ in the G.O.A.T. rankings.

"Michael was the greatest of all time, in my opinion…up until two years ago."@TheRealJRSmith keeps it real about MJ vs. @KingJames in a wide-ranging interview with @TeamVic and @pr_RWTW.

Watch the FULL interview: https://t.co/PXiOQXZ2Eq pic.twitter.com/dgFd2kU0kV

— UNINTERRUPTED (@uninterrupted) April 12, 2018

JR says that James’ staggering longevity and body of work puts him in a class all by himself.

Per Uninterrupted:

“MJ was the greatest of all time, in my opinion, up until two years ago,” Smith said.

“The last couple years, at 33 years old, averaging a triple-double a whole month walking into the playoffs. Just hit 31,000 points the other day.

“Hit 30,000 points earlier this year…8,000 rebounds…8,000 assists…”

The post JR Smith: LeBron James Surpassed Michael Jordan Two Years Ago appeared first on SLAM.

The @nyknicks haven’t hired the right team to recruit the King so we took matters into our own hands. 31st & 7th Ave

A post shared by Major Market Media (@nycadsco) on Apr 5, 2018 at 9:11pm PDT

Dwyane Wade, however, is skeptical that his former teammate will make the move to Manhattan this summer.

Dwyane Wade laughed when asked by a New York reporter about the billboard outside of Madison Square Garden recruiting LeBron James to the Knicks: "Good luck,” he said.

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) April 6, 2018

I showed LeBron a picture of the billboard in the locker room tonight. All I can say is…Dwyane Wade knows his friend well. https://t.co/abYHuywUiO

— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) April 7, 2018

JR Smith also can’t see the Cleveland Cavaliers’ superstar joining the Knicks.

Per the NY Daily News:

Dwyane Wade offered a smirking “good luck” when asked Friday night about the recruitment billboard of LeBron James that popped up across the street from Madison Square Garden last week.

Former Knick and current Cavaliers teammate J.R. Smith was even more direct when told about and shown a photo of the billboard on Sunday, not mincing words when asked if he believes there’s any chance LeBron winds up with the Knicks as a free agent this summer.

“Nah, don’t think so. Can’t see it (happening),” Smith told the Daily News with a laugh after the Cavs worked out at Basketball City at Pier 36 on South Street. “But that’s cool, though, man. A lot of cities have tried that already with (a billboard). But we’ll see what happens.”

The post Dwyane Wade on Knicks Fans Recruiting LeBron James: ‘Good Luck’ appeared first on SLAM.

My new best friend #Remington from #UNC

A post shared by JR Smith (@teamswish) on Mar 28, 2018 at 9:21am PDT

Smith said the pooch took his “mind off the game” and made him feel better.

JR added that his new fury friend—REMINGTON is a fully trained service dog, meant to help players deal emotionally when recovering from an injury or the stress of the game—provided the emotional support he required.

Per Cleveland.com:

“For me, it was exactly what I needed,” Smith said. “Took my mind off the game so it could make me feel better.”

Smith didn’t say what’s been getting him down. It may have nothing to do with basketball, but Smith (who’s been moved to the bench for the rest of the season and has struggled for large swaths of the year), had two quiet games before his Charlotte outburst, combining for just six points on Sunday and Tuesday.

“I’m an emotional person,” Smith said. “I’m (inaudible) In my head. I don’t really express a lot of things. Let’s just say it was right on time.”

The post JR Smith Credits Therapy Dog for Breakout Game appeared first on SLAM.

Smith told reporters that he wasn’t upset with the change, but admitted that he wished Lue had been more communicative.

New story: JR Smith says he doesn't know what his role will be moving forward after being replaced by Kyle Korver in the starting lineup on Tuesday https://t.co/L0BQBNrKH3

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 14, 2018

JR scored 14 points in 22 minutes off the pine in Cleveland’s 129-107 road win against Phoenix.

Per ESPN:

“I just felt like it,” Lue said when asked about the timing of his decision to bench Smith.

Smith said that there was no conversation with his coach about the move.

“We didn’t talk,” Smith told ESPN. “He sent me a text [Monday], and I told him, ‘No problem.’ I didn’t know that it was a ‘talk.'”

Smith acknowledged he was surprised by the change.

“That’s all right, though,” Smith said. “I’m not upset about it. I just wish there would have been more dialogue, I guess.”

The post Tyronn Lue Moves JR Smith to the Bench Again appeared first on SLAM.

On Saturday, Smith would not reveal anything specific when asked about the incident. He did admit, however, that some of the social media reaction was “pretty funny.”

See the full interview above, courtesy of ESPN.

RELATED
JR Smith Wanted To Bench Himself Earlier In The Season

The post JR Smith Addresses Soup Incident That Led To Suspension appeared first on SLAM.

According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Dave McMenamin, Smith will return to the starting lineup on Saturday.

JR Smith was suspended for throwing a bowl of soup at Cavs assistant coach Damon Jones, sources tell @mcten & me: https://t.co/OYA1xAW7t5

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) March 2, 2018

Cleveland Cavaliers guard JR Smith earned his one-game suspension from the team Thursday by throwing a bowl of soup at assistant coach Damon Jones, multiple sources with knowledge of the incident told ESPN.

RELATED:
JR Smith Suspended 1-Game for Post-Shootaround Incident

The post Report: JR Smith Suspended For Throwing Soup at Cavaliers Assistant Coach appeared first on SLAM.

Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue says “something that happened after shootaround” in the morning led to the suspension.

#Cavs G JR Smith has been suspended by the team for one game for detrimental conduct.

MORE: https://t.co/IokWrzPBRw

— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) March 1, 2018

Smith, 32, has started in 56 games this season and is averaging 8.3 points.

Per Cleveland.com:

Smith attended Thursday’s morning shootaround, but the team did not announce his suspension until two hours before tip-off.

“He was great this morning,” said Lue, who will start Rodney Hood in Smith’s place.

“Something happened after shootaround, so, that’s all the details I’m going to give to you. He’ll be ready for tomorrow and be ready to go on Saturday (against Denver).”

The post JR Smith Suspended 1-Game for Post-Shootaround Incident appeared first on SLAM.

In a story by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Smith says his confidence has finally returned.

New story: JR Smith tells ESPN things got so bad at times this season, he considered going to Ty Lue to take him out. Now, back in a groove, he's glad his coach stuck with him https://t.co/S6v5H4xsVD

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 13, 2018

Smith is returning to his “When in doubt, shoot” credo on the court — a significant shift in confidence from a guy who was tempted to bench himself earlier in the season.

“There were times when I wanted to go to [Lue] and be like, ‘Listen, man, I’m not playing well. Why not take me out?'” said Smith, who in 14 games this season has scored three points or fewer. “Fortunately, I didn’t and just stuck with it.”

The post JR Smith Wanted To Bench Himself Earlier In The Season appeared first on SLAM.

Lue has heard from a myriad of voices urging him to cut ties with Smith as Cleveland has struggled this season, but he says that would be wrong.

Tyronn Lue stuck with JR Smith this season because of 2016 Finals Game 7 heroics @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/wgXvvhhRmj

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) February 12, 2018

Smith, 32, is averaging 8.3 points and shooting .367 from 3-point range, along with a career-worst defensive rating of 112.7.

Per Cleveland.com:

“If it wasn’t for JR in ’16 making those eight straight points coming out in the third quarter, we don’t win the championship,” Lue said after practice Monday. “People saying quit on JR, give up on JR, it’s not right.”

Smith scored 15 points in Sunday’s 121-99 win over the Celtics and shot 6-of-7 from the field. He tied his own record for in-game field-goal percentage (.857) with at least five attempts.

“Sometimes your shot is going to come and go, that’s just part of the game,” Lue said. “For the most part, his effort is there every night. That’s why I wanted to stick with JR and I don’t want to lose JR. Make sure keep him in good spirits, going in the right direction. He’s big for us. When he’s making shots, when he’s being aggressive, our team is a whole different team.”

The post Tyronn Lue Sticking With JR Smith Due to NBA Finals Heroics appeared first on SLAM.

I have heard J.R. Smith is being offered to various teams. Smith is paid $13.7 million this season, with $14.7 million in 2018-19. He has a $15.7 million salary ($3.9 million guaranteed) for 2019-20.

The 32-year-old Smith has been with the Cavs since 2014 and is averaging 7.8 points in 29.8 minutes per game this season.

RELATED
JR Smith ‘Hurt’ By Move to Bench

The post Report: Cavaliers Offering JR Smith To Various Teams appeared first on SLAM.

In a story by Cleveland.com’s Joe Vardon, Smith said Monday’s game against their rivals “holds no weight.”

Christmas Day games don’t mean much in grand scheme of things, and Cavs-Warriors isn’t any different. Except for the one time it really, really mattered to LeBron and Co. @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/RH6oJOHDAl

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) December 22, 2017

“I mean as years go on, we kind of just don’t really give a (expletive) about it no more,” Cavs reserve center Tristan Thompson told cleveland.com. […]

 

“We definitely over the years, especially the first couple years, grew a strong dislike for them, but I think that’s just the nature of the game,” Smith said. “The matchups and whoever you guard and schemes, that’s all going to be totally different by the time we get to the Finals, so it don’t really hold no weight.”

RELATED:
Stephen Curry To Miss Christmas Day Game Against Cavaliers

The post JR Smith: Christmas Day Game Against Warriors Holds ‘No Weight’ appeared first on SLAM.

The Celtics’ 16-game winning streak came to an end Wednesday night in Miami.

The Cavs (11-7) are currently rolling, having won six in a row.

Per Bleacher Report:

“Nah,” JR Smith told B/R when asked if they’re paying attention to the league-leading Celtics. “It’s too early. Too early. We don’t start paying attention until after All-Star break when you see teams spacing out (in the standings). You start getting your best shot after the All-Star break.”

 

Smith cautioned, however, the Cavs can’t spend too much time playing catchup or it can come back to bite them in April, May and June.

 

“Last year we were coming off winning a championship (in 2016) and we got ahead of ourselves,” Smith said. “We should’ve been the one seed but Boston had a good year. We took steps further back when we shouldn’t have.”

Related
JR Smith on the Celtics: ‘I Don’t Really Pose That As A Big Threat’

The post JR Smith: Cavs Not Paying Attention to Celtics’ Record Yet appeared first on SLAM.

This man is always reaching. What does me wearing my Hoodie on the bench have anything todo with reminding “white people” of #trayvon

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) October 28, 2017

One they shouldn’t forget about him! An 2 how does me out of all 450+ Nba players. Like seriously keep my name out ya mouth. @stephenasmith

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) October 28, 2017

You want to talk about me not playing that’s fine but don’t try an put me in something I have nothing todo with. An I’m not the only one!

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) October 28, 2017

Show been trash sine #skip left anyway

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) October 28, 2017

The Cavs’ guard ridiculed Smith’s suggestion that wearing a hoodie on the bench could somehow become racially-charged.

Stephen A. defended his position, claiming his problem is with Nike producing warm-up gear featuring hoodies.

Per ESPN:

“I mean, that’s ridiculous,” JR Smith said. “Stephen A. said that me wearing my hoodie on the bench makes white people remember Trayvon Martin. For one, they should remember him. Everybody should remember him. But for two, I’ve always worn a hoodie. I used to wear my hoodie in New York.”

 

JR Smith said he did not understand why Stephen A. Smith chose to single him out for wearing his hoodie, when many players do so throughout the league. During pregame warm-ups in New Orleans on Saturday, for instance, Cavs teammates Tristan Thompson and Jae Crowder also had their hoodies pulled over their heads. He also acknowledged that you see Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona often wearing a hoodie in the dugout. The Indians are outfitted by Majestic.

 

“To bring race into that and for me, out of all people, why would you bring me into it? I have nothing to do with it,” JR Smith said. “I could see if you want to critique me on my playing, but don’t do that. That’s ridiculous.”

The post JR Smith Fires Back at Stephen A. Smith Over Hoodie Criticism appeared first on SLAM.

Asked if the Celtics are a bigger challenge this season, Smith replied, “Not really” (starting at 0:53):

https://youtu.be/W-fOv1PiaK0?t=53s

Are the Celtics a greater challenge than last season?

 

JR: “Not really. Yeah, they have [Kyrie] but last year, they had Isaiah [Thomas].

 

“Avery [Bradley] and Gordon [Hayward], obviously, they bring different things to the floor. Gordon’s a better offensive player, but obviously Avery’s a better defender. Pretty much a wash there.” […]

 

“I think they’re the same. I won’t say the same team because of different people in different jerseys.

 

“But I don’t really pose that as a big threat to us.”

RELATED:
JR Smith ‘Hurt’ By Move to Bench

The post JR Smith on the Celtics: ‘I Don’t Really Pose That As A Big Threat’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith initially thought Wade would be a sixth man for the Cavs, and was taken aback when head coach Tyronn Lue informed him of his new role.

New story: JR tells @RoadTrippinPod he was "hurt" by benching; Wade tells ESPN he wants to relationship build w/ JR https://t.co/jArgy9k4le

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 13, 2017

Smith plans to do a lot of “scoring, scoring, scoring” off the bench.

Per ESPN (via the “Road Trippin” podcast):

“Honestly, I was hurt, man,” Smith said on the podcast, which posted Friday. “I was really emotionally drained at that point. I got wind of it that it was going to go down, but I didn’t know. I was told he’s going to be great for the second unit. … It would be a great fit for the team, whatever, whatever. I’m like, ‘Awesome, let’s do it. One hundred percent. Out of all people, another person we’re going to just grab for damn-near nothing? For sure. Let’s do it.'”

 

Smith, who on media day said, “As long as we win, I don’t care,” when asked about Wade coming to the Cavs and perhaps affecting his role, opened up about his reaction when the possibility of Wade starting became a reality.

 

“My first initial thought, it wasn’t even to be selfish because that’s not just who I am as a player and as a person,” Smith said. “I’m a one-track mind. It’s what I’ve always been. That’s just me. So when you tell me something, I look at it as gold. So when you tell me something else, literally a couple of days later, it’s like, ah, now I got to change my mind frame from where I was at the last three years to flip it back to me being the sixth man — a successful three years, an extremely successful three years, I mean, we’ve been to three straight Finals.

 

“So to revert back, and the first thing I thought about was New York, like, ‘Damn. I got to go back to being the sixth man and just scoring, scoring, scoring. Being aggressive.’ And at the same time, also, I’m looking at our lineup like, my first thought with the lineup was, ‘OK, but who is going to stretch the floor? OK, we got Jae [Crowder], who is a knock-down 3-point shooter, Kev [Kevin Love] is a knock-down 3-point shooter, but that’s two out of the five guys that’s got to be on the floor.”

Related
JR Smith ‘Absolutely Frustrated’ Over Losing Starting Spot

The post JR Smith ‘Hurt’ By Move to Bench appeared first on SLAM.

In an interview with Joe Vardon of cleveland.com, Smith said he vented to Tristan Thompson, who also learned that he’ll be coming off the bench.

JR Smith 'absolutely frustrated' by benching, vented to Tristan Thompson @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/0uvgsIf6fZ

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) October 11, 2017

J.R. Smith said “absolutely” he is frustrated that he lost his place in the Cavaliers’ starting lineup to Dwyane Wade, though neither he nor Tristan Thompson aim to make trouble now that they’re both coming off the bench.

 

“We talked about it,” Smith told cleveland.com. “It wasn’t the most positive conversation, but we talked about it and we’ll get through it together.”

RELATED:
JR Smith Won’t Get Into ‘Blank-Measuring Contest’ with Dwyane Wade Over Starting Spot

The post JR Smith ‘Absolutely Frustrated’ Over Losing Starting Spot appeared first on SLAM.

“He was fine. It’s tough, you’ve been in position where you went to three straight Finals and you’ve been the starting 2-guard. But like I said it’s about sacrifice if you want to win. JR was great about it. Just knows he has to have a different role right now so we’ll see how it works.”

“I think at the end of the day, when guys sign here and wanted to come here, we all know what we’re here for,” LeBron James said, also in a quote on Cleveland.com. “So, there’s no ego. The only ego is bring your game, which these guys know how to do. We all have a common goal so none of that other stuff matters.”

Lue went on to say that though Derrick Rose will start, he’ll also run the second-unit offense, teaming with Smith and Tristan Thompson, another longtime starter. Kyle Korver and Jeff Green will most likely join that trio to form the Cavs’ go-to bench players.

The Cavs will go into opening night with a starting lineup that includes Rose, Wade, James, Jae Crowder and Kevin Love. They open up the regular season on October 17 against the Celtics.

Related
Tristan Thompson Wants to Win Sixth Man of the Year

h/t Cleveland.com

The post Ty Lue Confirms That Dwyane Wade Will Start, JR Smith Will Come Off the Bench appeared first on SLAM.

Smith added that while he hasn’t been told who will start, he doesn’t mind coming off the bench (starting at 1:51):

https://youtu.be/IcWIeSfXnWI?t=1m51s

“I’m not really going to focus on if I’m starting or I’m not. I’m still going to be able to play.

 

“If coach needs me to start, I’ll start. If he needs me to come off the bench, I’ll come off the bench.

 

“I’m not going to sit here and get into a ‘blank’-measuring contest with Dwyane Wade. I’m not gonna win that.”

RELATED:
Dwyane Wade: ‘No Better Place’ to Play Than Cleveland

The post JR Smith Won’t Get Into ‘Blank-Measuring Contest’ with Dwyane Wade Over Starting Spot appeared first on SLAM.

TMZ‘s cameras caught Smith on the way out of an L.A. restaurant, just as paparazzi began to grill him about LeBron (starting at 1:06):

LeBron’s gone man.

 

JR: “LeBron’s still here. He’s still here.”

 

Do you think LeBron’s going to come to L.A.?

 

JR: “I think LeBron’s going to be wherever the fuck he wants to be at.”

RELATED:
Report: LeBron James ‘Unequivocally’ Leaving Cavs for Lakers

The post JR Smith: LeBron James Will Play ‘Wherever the F— He Wants’ appeared first on SLAM.

T-Mac says the Cavs’ shooting guard “sounds dumb hell” for calling his thoughts on the difference between winning an NBA title and making into the HOF “dumb as hell.”

Repeatedly calling Smith “Earl” was a masterfully petty touch on McGrady’s part:

“It’s not to take anything away from champions,” McGrady said Thursday. “It’s not. But it’s a true statement that you have guys that go throw an 82-game season and the playoffs, never play a game, and at the end of the season, they’re also gonna be a part of that championship team and win. And there’s probably gonna be some guys that will be out of the season next year and won’t get back into the league.”

 

“I get that he had an opinion,” McGrady continued.

 

“Cool, I’m cool with that. But the part that I took offense was, if I was your teammate, we would have been fighting. Nah, that’s what I took offense to. Like, come on, man. Then he’s like ‘Don’t play with me about ball.’ Isn’t J.R. Smith the same guy that’s untying people’s shoes at the free throw line? That’s the same … Earl, right? Earl Smith, Jr.?”

Related
Tracy McGrady: Making HOF Harder Than Winning Title

The post Tracy McGrady: JR Smith ‘Sounds Dumb as Hell’ With HOF Comments appeared first on SLAM.

Earlier this month, Kanter and Smith hooped in a star-studded run with the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony.

After the game, Kanter told Bleacher Report’s Yaron Weitzman that he would take Smith “over everybody” in a game of summer pickup.

“I’ve never seen anybody better at pickup basketball than JR Smith,” Kanter says. “In a five-on-five game in the summer time, I’ll take JR Smith over everybody.”

 

Why?

 

“He just plays with so much confidence,” Kanter says. “He hits these crazy shots—step-backs, drives, hook shots—where everybody just looks at each other and goes, ‘Did he just make that?'”

RELATED:
JR Smith Prefers ‘Hoodie Melo’ to ‘Regular Melo’

The post Enes Kanter on JR Smith: ‘I’ve Never Seen Anybody Better at Pickup Basketball’ appeared first on SLAM.

#HoodieMelo pic.twitter.com/hkb7Um6fIc

— Taylor Rooks (@TaylorRooks) August 18, 2017

“Hoodie Melo doesnt play with a conscience,” Smith said.

 

“Regular Melo has a guard up, both great but I like hoodie Melo.”

We’ve seen glimples of a hooded Carmelo Anthony taking part in pickup runs throughout the summer against elite NBA and college competition.

Smith makes it clear that this version of Melo is more fun to watch, a sentiment we can all get behind.

Related
Carmelo Anthony and CJ McCollum Dominate Pickup Game

The post JR Smith Prefers ‘Hoodie Melo’ to ‘Regular Melo’ appeared first on SLAM.

The DLX backpacks offer a break from the normal, standard-sized, colorless backpacks with colorful designs and plenty of space. The Sprayground x NBA Lab bags range in price from $60-$90. Check out the photo gallery above to see KP and JR show off their backpacks.

https://youtu.be/aJaeqatZzWo

Related
Sprayground is Changing the Backpack Game

Photos courtesy of Sprayground. Grab your bag now. 

The post Sprayground’s NBA Players Backpacks Are Available Now appeared first on SLAM.

The runs took place at Life Time Athletic at Sky in NYC, where Melo often trains in the offsseason.

LeBron has also hinted that he’ll be hooping in L.A. prior to the start of training camp.

Per ESPN:

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James took a private jet from Akron, Ohio, to New York on Tuesday morning to participate in high-profile pickup games that featured Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks and Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors, among others.

 

James played for approximately two hours, a source said. As soon as the game was over, he hopped on his jet and flew back to Ohio in order to attend his annual LeBron James Family Foundation function at Cedar Point amusement park.

 

“He just has a love for basketball,” a source close to James said, adding that the Cavs star plans to partake in some pickup games in Los Angeles in the near future.

Related
Carmelo Anthony and CJ McCollum Dominate Pickup Game

The post LeBron James Plays Pickup With Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony appeared first on SLAM.

He was one of the first pro hoopers to sign on with Sprayground, an innovative backpack company that allows him to show off all that style. Sprayground doesn’t make simple bags, they set out to make a backpack that reflects the wearer or the person that put their name on it. And they make each bag pop with loud colors, unique patterns and even side-panel wings.

Smith’s first backpack with Sprayground dropped last year. After that, Sprayground followed up by inking a partnership with NBA Lab that eventually produced bags that feature either the name or likeness of Kristaps Porzingis, Damian Lillard, Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, James Harden and LeBron James.

James’ sons have even been wearing the bags.

“It’s amazing to see the players have been rocking and supporting the brand since day one,” David Ben-David, Sprayground’s founder, says. “From Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Shaq to LeBron James’ kids.”

The James boys are around Smith and his backpacks pretty often. But even if Smith’s infectious style didn’t catch their eyes, Sprayground’s decision to stray from the boring design of standard backpacks would’ve drawn them in regardless.

Sprayground’s NBA-themed bags feature a modern update on iconic team logos. Their player backpacks rock with their personal name, number, name of the city they play in and their individual personalities. Porzingis, Harden and Westbrook, for example, have their own particular gear.

Smith followed up his debut backpack with one that proudly displays his last name and his number across the front. It’s accented by cartoon-style drawings on the side panels that tell the story of his life.

“Each bag is designed to tell the story of its city or player,” Ben-David says.

Sprayground’s NBA backpacks, available now, come in the DLX silhouette and range in price from $60-$90. Scroll through the gallery above to see pictures of the bags and peep the video below to see ‘em touring the East coast.

https://youtu.be/aJaeqatZzWo

Photos courtesy of Sprayground. Grab your bag now. 

The post Put the Team on Your Back appeared first on SLAM.

Smith called T-Mac’s comments “dumb as hell” in a tweetstorm.

Smith shot back that “people who did nothing make the hall.”

This man really said "anyone can win a ring but not everyone can make it to the Hall Of Fame?" Soooo no one else thinks that dumb as hell???

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) July 31, 2017

FACTS!! People who did nothing make the hall!! If it was like MLB ok but Basketball hall a fame you can build a park an get in!! https://t.co/0gEkFoQ7hN

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) July 31, 2017

So you played for the Hall an not to win. If I was on his team we fighting idc if we don't play no more. Don't waste my time. Not wit hoop!

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) July 31, 2017

The post JR Smith Criticizes Tracy McGrady’s Hall of Fame Comments appeared first on SLAM.

Smith posted a “good bye Cavs” message on his Facebook page, only to quickly detete it.

J.R. Smith posted this on his Facebook page, but quickly deleted it pic.twitter.com/lzyH47aqeB

— SB Nation (@SBNation) June 21, 2017

Smith says he’s not going anywhere.

Idk what's going on with social media but this is crazy. I'm not leaving the #Cavs

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) June 21, 2017

The 31-year-old shooting guard inked a four-year, $57 million deal with Cleveland last year.

The post JR Smith Deletes ‘Good Bye Cavs’ Post appeared first on SLAM.

When Tristan Thompson stepped in to defend his point guard, he and West went head-to-head (and got awkwardly close). Peep the altercation below:

After review, three technical fouls were issued: West, Thompson, and JR Smith.

The post David West Gets Into It With Tristan Thompson appeared first on SLAM.

Shortly thereafter, the message vanished, and Smith claimed he was hacked.

J.R. Smith's inspirational "Cavs in 7" postgame tweet? He told me he was hacked. "I'm smarter than that." https://t.co/5jPparTS1J

— Doug Lesmerises (@DougLesmerises) June 8, 2017

Smith finished with 16 points as the defending NBA champs fell down a 3-0 hole in the Finals.

Per Cleveland.com:

“I got out of the shower and my phone was buzzing. I did not tweet that,” Smith told me as he walked out of the locker room after his postgame interview session before a crowd of cameras at his locker.

 

“I’m smarter than that.”

 

It was proof for fans that J.R. believes.

 

“I do believe,” Smith said. “But I didn’t tweet that. I would be much smarter than that to tweet that at literally 12:04, right after the game.”

The post JR Smith Tweets, Then Deletes ‘Cavs in 7’ appeared first on SLAM.

Dakota remained hospitalized for over five months until May 23, when she was able to be taken home by her family.

JR and his wife shed tears as they spoke to ESPN about their incredibly emotional journey.

“My wife needs me, my daughter needs me. Nothing is more important to me in my life at this point.

 

“You see your daughter go through…like in most of my life I’ve been able to be in control of everything and something like that, you have no control.

 

“And it’s your child and obviously I would do anything for her. It hurt.”

RELATED:
JR Smith’s Daughter, Dakota, Born Five Months Premature

The post JR Smith Gives Emotional Interview about Daughter Dakota’s Premature Birth appeared first on SLAM.

On a shot attempt during the third quarter, Durant almost was almost injured by Cavs guard JR Smith as Smith slid his foot under Durant on the closeout.

https://youtu.be/7CwccKUM1m0

Durant narrowly avoided Smith’s foot on the way down, made the three-pointer and drew the foul on Smith—his fourth.

Closeouts have been a hot topic for the Warriors during the postseason this year. After Kawhi Leonard went down in Game 1 after landing on Zaza Pachulia’s foot in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, KD avoided another dangerous closeout by LaMarcus Aldridge in Game 2.

RELATED:
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The post WATCH: JR Smith’s Dangerous Closeout on Kevin Durant Backfires appeared first on SLAM.

JR Smith was asked if the Cavs would try to “dirty up the game” and “play more physical.” Swish pointed to the fact that the Warriors are the team that has “one guy who keeps kicking people in the nuts,” an obvious reference to Draymond Green:

Dirtying up the game? I don’t know about that. They got one guy who keeps kicking people in the nuts. I don’t know about that. But we won’t dirty up the game. We just play physical. Some people don’t like physicality, and that’s what it is. But we just got to play our game and the way we know how to play, and that’s what’s been successful for us.

Draymond was famously suspended last year’s Game 5 after an altercation with LeBron James. In fairness, Green has kept his nose clean during this year’s playoffs and is not in any danger of being suspended based on the NBA’s technical and flagrant foul rules.

Related
Draymond Green: LeBron James ‘Can’t Have This Ring’

The post JR Smith: ‘Warriors Got One Guy Who Keeps Kicking People In The Nuts’ appeared first on SLAM.

Martin went into detail about the time he nearly murdered JR Smith for stuffing his car with popcorn seven years ago.

The audio of K-Mart losing his mind in the Denver Nuggets’ locker room is well worth your time.

ESPN has more from this amazing story:

“That ain’t no [expletive] joke,” Martin said. “I’m going to find out who did it … put my [expletive] hands on one of y’all. I’m going to put my hands on whoever did it. You better believe that. It’s [expletive] personal. You better believe it.”

 

Martin, who has missed 15 games with a torn patella tendon in his left knee, threatened to boycott the postseason if he did not find out who was responsible.

 

“How ’bout if I don’t play in the playoffs until somebody tells me who did it,” Martin said more than once.

 

“It was just an April Fools joke that went horribly wrong,” said a member of the Nuggets organization who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “The kid thought it would be funny and it wasn’t. Kenyon was back at practice today and everything was fine between him and his teammates.”

The post Kenyon Martin Nearly Beat Up JR Smith Over Popcorn Prank appeared first on SLAM.

JR pic.twitter.com/yKLn33BCqM

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 26, 2017

The post WATCH: JR Smith Gets a Beer Spilled on Him, Then Licks His Hand appeared first on SLAM.

James did not speak to reporters Monday, but his squad rallied to his defense.

J.R. Smith challenged LeBron James' confidence, production after poor Game 3 @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/xAH0n01WVX

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) May 22, 2017

Smith called Avery Bradley’s game-winning three-pointer “luck of the Irish,” and Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue thought it was a “weird” loss for the defending NBA champs.

Per Cleveland.com:

“Play confident,” Smith said, when asked for his reaction to James’ 11 points on 4-of-13 shooting in a stunning 111-108 loss to the Celtics in the conference finals. “That’s my only thing. People of his stature, well, there’s only three, but people like him, you gotta play confident the whole night and play aggressive.

 

“I mean, it’s the Eastern Conference finals. It’s not enough, for him, for what he does, for what he brings. It’s not enough. He knows that. We know that. Just expecting him to be better in Game 4.”

 

Smith chalked it up to a lack of confidence in James, which is also stunning considering his three championships, four MVPs, and body of work in the playoffs both this season and last (when he brought the Cavs back from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Warriors in the Finals).

 

“I mean, I never have that problem,” said Smith, who scored 13 points to go with eight rebounds in Game 3. “I’ve been confident every time I’ve stepped on the court, whether I’m falling out of bounds or shooting a free throw, confidence is something I never lack. That’s my job as his teammate and as his friend is making sure he stays confident in what he does, and you know, just trying to get him out of it.”

Related
LeBron James Mad at Fan and Reporter After Game 3 Loss

The post JR Smith: LeBron James Must ‘Play Confident’ in Game 4 appeared first on SLAM.

Smith signaled a sweep to the crowd as he dusted the TD Garden floor with an imaginary broom.

The Cavs would go on to win Game 2, 130-86.

RELATED:
WATCH: JR Smith’s Crazy Buzzer-Beater Gives Cavs 41-Point Halftime Lead

The post WATCH: JR Smith Brings Out the Broom in Game 2 appeared first on SLAM.

Seemingly every bucket was going in for Cleveland in the first half, as they opened up a 72-31 lead with JR Smith‘s insane turnaround jumper at the buzzer.

https://youtu.be/5mzZpiOCtwQ

The 41-point halftime lead was the largest in playoff history.

The previous high was 40 points by Pistons over Bullets in 1987.

RELATED:
WATCH: LeBron James Chasedown Block on Avery Bradley

The post WATCH: JR Smith’s Crazy Buzzer-Beater Gives Cavs 41-Point Halftime Lead appeared first on SLAM.

Smith said “dirty plays” and “cheap shots” could be coming because it’s essentially a do-or-die game for the Celtics. Starting at 1:32:

“When their backs are up against the wall, they tend to play better just like we do.

 

“You just got to expect that and understand there might be dirty plays, there might be cheap shots or whatever coming from the other side because they’re fighting for their lives at this point.”

Smith’s comments also come with a twist of irony, considering he was ejected for smacking Jae Crowder in the face during Game 4 of 2015 playoffs.

RELATED:
JR Smith Takes Credit for LeBron James’ Triple-Doubles

The post JR Smith: Cavs Expect ‘Dirty Plays,’ ‘Cheap Shots’ From Celtics in Game 2 appeared first on SLAM.

After Game 4 on Sunday, JR Smith learned his coach wasn’t joking.

Smith jumped while defending DeRozan at one point during Cleveland’s 109-102 win, and was confronted by Lue in the locker room to collect Smith’s $100 fine. Per Cleveland.com:

Cavs coach Tyronn Lue fined J.R. Smith $100 for biting on a DeMar DeRozan pump fake in Game 4 Sunday, and collected in the locker room after the win.

 

With a plate full of food in one hand, Lue called for and collected a crisp $100 bill from Smith.

 

“I knew it as soon as I did it,” Smith told cleveland.com.

RELATED:
DeMar DeRozan Offers $100 to Anyone Who Can Stop LeBron James

The post Tyronn Lue Fined JR Smith $100 For Biting on DeMar DeRozan’s Pump Fake in Game 4 appeared first on SLAM.

Luckily for him, Paul George was unable to knock down the game-tying three-point attempt, and the Cavs escaped with a W.

Send it to Springfield pic.twitter.com/wBeumrV9rD

— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) April 23, 2017

After the game, Tyronn Lue was asked about the entire sequence.

“I didn’t see it…” – Tyronn Lue on J.R. Smith’s turnover at the end of the game and after series sweep against Pacers#NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/fRIbxthUYy

— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 23, 2017

Good answer, coach.

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WATCH: LeBron James Nails Dagger Three-Pointer in Series-Clinching Victory

The post Tyronn Lue on J.R. Smith’s Late Turnover: ‘I Didn’t See it’ appeared first on SLAM.

Most J.R. quote ever pic.twitter.com/I9rqcLh96U

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 15, 2017

James finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists.

Kyrie Irving added 26 points in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 128-96 win against the visiting Detroit Pistons.

Per the AP:

James picked up his 10th triple-double of the season and third in the last four games at the 3:45 mark of the third quarter and played only 28 minutes.

 

Cleveland’s hot shooting buried Detroit early. The Cavaliers made their first 10 3-pointers and started by hitting 22 of 25 shots for a 60-33 lead early in the second quarter.

 

“They were great and we were terrible,” Detroit coach Stan Van Gundy. “That’s how you get a lopsided game.”

The post JR Smith Takes Credit for LeBron James’ Triple-Doubles appeared first on SLAM.

Speaking prior to Monday night’s rematch in Cleveland, Waiters said Smith needlessly escalated things at the end of a blowout.

Dion Waiters says J.R. Smith ‘overreacted for no reason’ at end of Heat’s victory over Cavs Saturdayhttps://t.co/6KU8ja4DVQ pic.twitter.com/8k1UP46uKt

— Tom D'Angelo (@tomdangelo44) March 6, 2017

Smith was not disciplined for his outburst.

Per the Palm Beach Post:

“Listen, man, when you come from that kind of stuff this stuff here is all acting,” Waiters said following the Heat shoot-around today. “I come from that. Why would I waste my time? Nothing is going to escalate. You got a bunch of security guys who will hold you back. It’s not going to go nowhere.

 

“When’s the last time there were a real fight in the NBA. We’re grown.”

 

Waiters added he thought Smith, “overreacted for no reason.”

Related
WATCH: Dion Waiters Nails Dagger Three from WAY Downtown

The post Dion Waiters: J.R. Smith ‘Overreacted for No Reason’ appeared first on SLAM.

It took them an overtime win to get there, but the Spurs have now clinched a postseason berth for the 20th consecutive season. Gregg Popovich has been at the helm for all 20 seasons, joining Phil Jackson as the only coaches to hold the all-time honor (Jackson’s streak spanned 21 seasons).

Kawhi Leonard (34 points) and LaMarcus Aldridge (18p, 10r) played over 40 minutes for the second straight night, and Pau Gasol dropped 17 points off the bench to cement the victory. Karl-Anthony Towns was his usual self, scoring 24 points with 14 boards, but Andrew Wiggins was just 6-of-24 from the field in a disappointing loss.

Not completely sure but very possible the Spurs have a better record down by double-digits than Wolves do when ahead by double-digits.

— Danny Leroux (@DannyLeroux) March 5, 2017

Trail Blazers 130 (25-35), Nets 116 (10-50)

C.J. McCollum scored 31 points and Al-Farouq Aminu added 23, helping Portland gain a game on Denver for the Western Conference eighth seed. Sean Kilpatrick hit a career-high six 3-pointers and Brook Lopez scored 26, but Kenny Atkinson’s Nets fell to 3-27 on the road.

Pistons 136 (29-32), 76ers 106 (23-38)

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope went off for a game-high 26 points- 16 of which came in the second quarter alone. Stan Van Gundy, who recently criticized Reggie Jackson’s lack of energy, received stellar production from his guards. Jackson recorded 21 points on 9/14 shooting, and Ish Smith added a double-double (13a, 11p). With Jahlil Okafor sidelined, the Sixers absorbed a beating; though Nik Stauskas provided a nice highlight with this move:

Too much sauce for KCP. pic.twitter.com/4d8SAXpjIi

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 5, 2017

Heat 120 (28-34), Cavaliers 92 (42-18)

The Cavs were hard-pressed to compete in this one, as Ty Lue announced LeBron James and Kyrie Irving would take a night of rest. Miami scored 101 points through the first three quarters, as Goran Dragic and Hassan Whiteside tallied 23 and 20 points, respectively. Deron Williams received an extensive look with his new team, scoring 10 points with seven dimes over 26 minutes. J.R. Smith- who’s still at least a week away from returning- got into it with Rodney McGruder and Dion Waiters after the game.

After @MiamiHEAT's blowout win, J.R. Smith exchanged words with Rodney McGruder and Dion Waiters https://t.co/NNaDqDXoG6 pic.twitter.com/DKOHQerulW

— SLAM (@SLAMonline) March 5, 2017

Bucks 101 (27-33), Raptors 94 (37-25)

Spencer Hawes not only scored his first points with the Bucks in this one, he’d shoot 6-7 from the field and finish with a +14 in Milwaukee’s second straight W. Khris Middleton scored 24 and Giannis Antetokounmpo added 21, as the Bucks are now just 1.5 games behind the eighth seed. Milwaukee could conceivably make a playoff push, especially with Terrence Jones on the way.

Clippers 101 (36-25), Bulls 91 (31-30)

Jamal Crawford saved the day with 25 points on 10-of-17 shooting off the bench, helping the Clippers win Saturday’s primetime match-up. The Bulls- who used 11 different players in the loss- received just 10 points from Dwyane Wade and four turnovers from Rajon Rondo. D-Wade gave full props to Crawford after the defeat:

“Crawford went one-on-one, and you can’t do nothing when he’s going like that,’’ Wade said. “It wasn’t so much defensive breakdowns as it was [Crawford] making shots.’’

Hornets 112 (26-35), Nuggets 102 (28-33)

Johnny O’Bryant, currently on his third 10-day contract of the season, scored a career-high 15 points in Charlotte’s crucial road victory. Kemba Walker scored 27 and Nic Batum added 21, guiding the Hornets to victory following a 17-0 first quarter run. Nikola Jokic continues to emerge as one of the league’s premier young talents, scoring 31 points with 14 boards and four dimes.

https://youtu.be/O5_60Tngswo

Rockets 123 (43-19), Grizzlies 108 (36-26)

The Rockets are going to be a handful to deal with in the playoffs. Even on off-shooting nights from Lou Williams and Ryan Anderson, Houston drilled 18 3-pointers, improving to 8-2 over their last 10 games. Mike Conley and JaMychal Green each exceeded 20 points, but as coach David Fizdale attested to after the game, Memphis just wasn’t able to contain Houston’s offense.

“We stopped defending the 3-point line with discipline and it just doesn’t take long with them,” Fizdale said. “It’s really like three or four possessions that can bust a game open for this team and that’s what happened.”

The post Post Up: Playoff Bound appeared first on SLAM.

The post WATCH: J.R. Smith Gets Into It With Rodney McGruder appeared first on SLAM.

Smith says that he needs more time to recover from a broken right thumb.

Please don't believe the hype. Still a ways to go. "Sources" means they have nothing else to wright. Trusting my process!

— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) February 13, 2017

Smith is reportedly putting up shots with the injured hand without severe pain:

Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith, who is on target for a mid-March return, could take the court in as soon as three weeks in his comeback from a right thumb fracture, league sources told ESPN.

 

The sharpshooter is progressing well in his recovery from the injury that he sustained in late December, sources said. Barring an unforeseen setback, Smith will be back on the floor next month. [,,,] At the time of his injury, it was not anticipated that Smith would return to the lineup before late March or early April.

 

A team source told ESPN that Smith will have his right thumb reimaged during the All-Star break, and that could adjust his timeline. Asked to characterize Smith’s rehab process so far, the source said, “great.”

The post J.R. Smith Denies Report That He Could Return in Three Weeks appeared first on SLAM.

“We know we’re not the only family going through this, who has been through this and who will ever go through it. That’s why we decided to share what we’re going through with you guys. Please keep us in your prayers, and we’ll do the same for everyone else.”

Smith and his family received support and prayers from colleagues on social media.

https://twitter.com/ReggieCam5/status/817857874630213635

Prayers up for @TheRealJRSmith & the Smith family! #staystrongdakota

— solomon hill (@solohill) January 7, 2017

Sending all good thoughts out to @TheRealJRSmith & his family.
This is very tough; credit to them for sharing this w/others going through it https://t.co/REAMVe2SgM

— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) January 8, 2017

The post J.R. Smith’s Daughter, Dakota, Born Five Months Premature appeared first on SLAM.

Karl claims that Melo is a “user of people” and only cares about scoring.

By George,: Karl rips 'user' Carmelo Anthony in upcoming memoir https://t.co/zhAyZtsPWH

— Marc Berman (@NYPost_Berman) December 22, 2016

But it’s not all bad: Karl gives Anthony the nod as the most gifted offensive player he’s ever coached.

Per the NY Post:

Karl also took aim in “Furious George” at former Nuggets, and ex-Knicks, J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin. He branded the trio of Anthony, Smith and Martin as “AAU babies” — akin to “the spoiled brats you see in junior golf and junior tennis.” […] Karl also referred to Smith’s entourage as “a posse” — a phrase that got Knicks president Phil Jackson in hot water when he used it regarding LeBron James’ managers.

 

“Carmelo was a true conundrum for me in the six years I had him,” Karl wrote. “He was the best offensive player I ever coached. He was also a user of people, addicted to the spotlight and very unhappy when he had to share it. […] He really lit my fuse with his low demand of himself on defense. He had no commitment to the hard, dirty work of stopping the other guy. My ideal — probably every coach’s ideal — is when your best player is also your leader. But since Carmelo only played hard on one side of the ball, he made it plain he couldn’t lead the Nuggets, even though he said he wanted to. Coaching him meant working around his defense and compensating for his attitude.”

 

“Kenyon and Carmelo carried two big burdens: all that money and no father to show them how to act like a man,” Karl wrote. […] Karl wrote Anthony “was such a talented kid,’’ he could’ve “become the best defender at his position in the NBA.”

Related
George Karl Enjoying Life in Denver Post-Carmelo Anthony

The post George Karl Trashes Carmelo Anthony’s Personality and Defense in Memoir appeared first on SLAM.

Update (December 21): Smith will undergo surgery on his thumb, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. The typical recovery time for the surgery is 4-6 weeks.

Original Story: J.R. Smith left Tuesday night’s 114-108 OT win against the Milwaukee Bucks early, and the Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly fear that Smith broke his right thumb.

New story: The Cavs fear J.R. Smith has a broken R thumb, sources tell ESPN https://t.co/UlP5S62N4E

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 21, 2016

Initial X-rays were inconclusive, and Smith will be re-evaluated today in Cleveland.

The 31-year-old shooting guard previously missed five games due to knee and ankle injuries this season.

Per ESPN:

Smith, who signed a four-year, $57 million extension with Cleveland in the offseason after the Cavs’ championship win, entered Tuesday’s game averaging 8.8 points on 33.7 percent shooting (35.8 percent from 3).

 

Cavs coach Tyronn Lue said he was unsure of how Smith injured his thumb, however Cavs broadcast partner Fox Sports Ohio reported it occurred when Smith swiped down on the Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The post Report: Cavs Fear J.R. Smith Has a Broken Thumb appeared first on SLAM.

Tyronn Lue and Smith chatted about his actions during and after the Cavs’ loss in Milwaukee.

Lue talked to J.R. Smith about his 'embarrassing moment'; J.R. said he pleaded ignorance to avoid being 'boring' https://t.co/lveS8hbeBo

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) November 30, 2016

Lue also chided J.R. about wearing a ski mask during his postgame interview.

Per the NEOMG:

“Me and J.R. talked about it,” Lue said after practice Thursday, which followed what was Cleveland’s worst loss of the season, a 118-101 downer in Milwaukee. “We’re just going to move forward. We had a discussion about it, he felt embarrassed about it, it was an embarrassing play. We talked about it. We’re moving on.”

 

Even more bizarre, after the game Smith said “I didn’t even know I was in the game. My bad.” […] On Thursday, Lue said “I talked to him about that also. There’s no need for that. Just address the media in the right way, move on.”

 

Smith, who met with the team’s beat reporters after receiving treatment Thursday, explained: “I said it more in a joking manner because you can see what happened, obviously I wasn’t paying attention. For me to just sit there and tell you I wasn’t paying attention makes it plain and boring somewhat, especially when you’re asking a question you already know the answer to,” Smith said. “But at the same time, I still have to give that boring answer, for whatever reason.”

Related
Tyronn Lue: J.R. Smith is the ‘Heart and Soul of the Team’

The post Tyronn Lue Spoke to J.R. Smith About His ‘Embarrassing Play’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith, who allowed a dunk by dapping up Bucks guard Jason Terry instead of playing defense, claims that he didn’t even know he was in the game (a 118-101 road loss for the Cavs.)

Ladies and gentlemen, J.R. Smith pic.twitter.com/SXFjZv8z6A

— Jason Lloyd (@JasonLloydABJ) November 30, 2016

J.R. Smith's "alter ego" likes ski masks pic.twitter.com/qt3uQiUk1g

— Jason Lloyd (@JasonLloydABJ) November 30, 2016

J.R. is mired in an ugly shooting slump, hitting just 3 of 29 shot attempts in the last three games (including 3-for-24 from three-point land.)

Per the Akron Beacon Journal:

Smith obviously knew he screwed up and didn’t want to talk about it. Fine. But he somehow managed to bring even more attention to an already attention-worthy gaffe. The video is better than anything I can write about it.

 

Why was he wearing a ski mask? Good question. […] J.R. Smith folks, a national treasure.

 

Tyronn Lue hadn’t seen the play yet, but didn’t seem nearly as amused by it. It’s the type of play and reaction Smith would get crushed for on a losing team, but since the Cavs are winning, it’s dismissed as J.R. being J.R.

Related
WATCH: Jason Terry Distracts J.R. Smith Mid-Play

The post J.R. Smith Wears Ski Mask During Postgame Interview appeared first on SLAM.

Well, this isn’t one of J.R. Smith’s finer moments. Jason Terry offered bait to J.R.- extending a warm hug to an old friend- and tricked J.R. into his leaving his man wide open. Tony Snell capitalized on the moment with a wide open look. As you might expect, Twitter is having a field day with this low-light:

https://twitter.com/SheaSerrano/status/803784344741494784

https://twitter.com/HotNewHipHop/status/803784785416114176

Jet the vet. #OwnTheFuture https://t.co/kEjfyAwrwz

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) November 30, 2016

The post WATCH: Jason Terry Distracts J.R. Smith Mid-Play appeared first on SLAM.

Also on stage with LeBron and Clinton was JR Smith, who has also publicly supported Clinton via his social media accounts.

LeBron James campaigns for Hillary Clinton: Our vote matters, “it really, really does.” We have to get out and vote https://t.co/JVtekml65L

— CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) November 6, 2016

LeBron’s appearance at today’s rally cements his status as one of, if not the, biggest and most influential athletes in the world.

Related
Tweetcap: NBA Players React to Debate
Mark Cuban Says He Would ‘Crush’ Donald Trump in the Presidential Election

The post WATCH: LeBron James and JR Smith Join Hillary Clinton Onstage at Cleveland Rally appeared first on SLAM.

Before the popular social media platform goes away for good, we compiled the best basketball-related Vines. Check them out below:

https://vine.co/v/MFWZahKIQAj

https://vine.co/v/OXa2dtZbAVq

https://vine.co/v/5dtxDXqrBLP

https://vine.co/v/hPJt3M15veg

https://vine.co/v/hdtQKH1m3Tn

https://vine.co/v/hHDYAmtPBYV

https://vine.co/v/OFA3AVd5pBX

https://vine.co/v/ezttEPM33jn

https://vine.co/v/iZr0BwA19VM

https://vine.co/v/itzw6AXuXth

https://vine.co/v/iLna7V51VEe

https://vine.co/v/i2eWPvl0U07

https://vine.co/v/i2aVEK2lAHV

https://vine.co/v/iI7h66BOUha

https://vine.co/v/ij2O3nPb7vj

https://vine.co/v/iIhDhFvLY9b

https://vine.co/v/i1jw0htwr12

https://vine.co/v/ebr9XgWDM2p

https://vine.co/v/O35d2iWqPdl

https://vine.co/v/OpM6QHB2Tvt

https://vine.co/v/OeXMwbwPdAt

https://vine.co/v/5KM5KKZTH0j

https://vine.co/v/htIK3mnuHuv

https://vine.co/v/ebJ5JO2p9xp

https://vine.co/v/hEPAHYWYznD

https://vine.co/v/OODmzVljvwt

https://vine.co/v/i5p3BIHvqVL

https://vine.co/v/hOu9EJq5iB1

https://vine.co/v/iUQQEDwYJOO

https://vine.co/v/i7UZvgrnYIM

https://vine.co/v/eOPHOdZpvuu

https://vine.co/v/MObjKKPvnpi

https://vine.co/v/iPmE3wvUuMH

https://vine.co/v/iYhrdWLZPQI

https://t.co/iHWThWztjG

https://t.co/eXYEfDoLNi

https://vine.co/v/ixPleetLrw7

https://vine.co/v/i3z0ZKhl07j

https://vine.co/v/elalwIanLqa

Related
WATCH: Angry Sixers Fan Flips Off Russell Westbrook
WATCH: Best Dunks of 2016 NBA Preseason

The post WATCH: The Best Basketball Vines of All Time appeared first on SLAM.

Check out the photos above.

The post JR Smith Debuts New Sprayground Backpack appeared first on SLAM.

J.R. Smith and the Cavs have come to terms on a four-year $57 million deal, league sources say

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 15, 2016

According to Marc Stein of ESPN, the fourth year of Smith’s deal is non-guaranteed, but a full guarantee will kick in if he remains on the Cavs’ roster after the 2018-19 season.

The Celtics reportedly had serious interest in signing Smith, as did the 76ers.

ESPN sources say a hard push from Sixers GM Bryan Colangelo for J.R. Smith helped sparked Friday's talks with the Cavs to get a deal done

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 15, 2016

The Cavs officially announced the signing on Saturday, along with the release of guard Toney Douglas.

From NBA.com:

CLEVELAND, OH – The 2016 NBA Champion Cleveland Cavaliers have re-signed guard J.R. Smith, General Manager David Griffin announced today from Cleveland Clinic Courts.

 

“Bringing J.R. back as part of our core group was a priority for us,” said Griffin. “He’s a special part of this family and we are very pleased to have reached an agreement that we all can feel good about. We know he can’t wait to get back on the court with his brothers and we are certain that everyone in this organization and city feels the same way.”

RELATED:
LeBron James Pressures Cavs To Sign JR Smith: ‘They Need To Get It Done’
Tristan Thompson: ‘We Cannot Win a Championship Without JR Smith’

The post Cavaliers, JR Smith Agree To 4-Year, $57 Million Deal appeared first on SLAM.

It is likely that Smith, a one-time Sixth Man of the Year with the Knicks, will re-sign with Cleveland but there are several teams that have interest in the shooting guard. One team is the Boston Celtics, whose second unit could certainly use a little scoring punch.

 

Barring a trade to clear cap space, the Celtics have approximately $9 million to sign Smith. He’s looking for a bigger payday, somewhere in the $15 million per season range. The Cavs are currently offering between $10 and $11 million annually. The Celtics would have to get close to $15 million for Smith to want to leave Cleveland to be a back-up to Avery Bradley.

Cavs players and coaches have publicly endorsed Smith’s re-signing. LeBron said the front office “needs to get it done,” Tristan Thompson claimed the Cavs “can’t win a championship without Smith” and Tyronn Lue called the 3-point specialist the “heart and soul of the team.” Despite not being signed, Smith has been seen out with the Cavs, most recently at Friday’s Cleveland Indians playoff game.

Related
Report: Cavs and J.R. Smith About $5 Million Apart In Talks
J.R. Smith Doesn’t Want To Answer Free Agency Questions
WATCH: LeBron James Tells Cavs To Get J.R. Smith Deal ‘Done’

The post Report: Celtics Have Interest In J.R. Smith appeared first on SLAM.

Both parties want a deal, but unless someone blinks, this stalemate could last a while longer.

Do the #Cavs face a deadline in trying to sign J.R. Smith? Hey, Joe @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/FtYCHtF0lA

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) October 7, 2016

Even LeBron James’ considerable clout hasn’t swayed the Cavs to increase the dollar amount on the table.

Per the NEOMG:

When will J.R. Smith sign with the CAVS? What are they waiting for?

 

The Cavs (they appreciate the all caps, by the way) are waiting for Smith to sign the deal they offered him. Smith is waiting for them to up their offer. The team offered somewhere between $10 million and $11 million, annually, while Smith is looking for more like $15 million annually. Isn’t this fun?

 

Looking at the J.R. Smith contract negotiation issue, is there like a deadline where he can no longer be signed for the upcoming season? If so, when?

 

Good question. The answer is no. For example, the Cavs signed Dahntay Jones on the final day of the regular season last year. He remained on the team throughout the playoffs and played meaningful minutes in Game 6 of the Finals. Smith is an unrestricted free agent, but the Cavs have the right to give him a lucrative contract (go above the salary cap, or offer him above the veteran’s minimum) so long as he remains a free agent. Any deadline would be an arbitrary one. Either team owner Dan Gilbert draws a line in the sand, or Smith does. Or neither side does that and this thing gets worked out amicably.

Related
LeBron James Pressures Cavs To Sign JR Smith: ‘They Need To Get It Done’

The post Report: Cavs and J.R. Smith About $5 Million Apart in Talks appeared first on SLAM.

Last season, Tristan Thompson took contract negotiations down to the wire, and it looks like JR Smith could miss extended time with the team this year.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, LeBron said he hates “having to deal with this s**t again” during training camp.

More from Cleveland.com:

“Negotiations are always two-sides but J.R. did his part,” James said. “He showed up every day. Worked his ass off every day. Became a two-way player, a model citizen in Cleveland and he’s a fan favorite, obviously we all know that. All of the sudden now he’s a season ticket holder at the Indians games.

 

“We just miss him. We miss having him around. He’s a big piece of our team and they just need to get it done.”

 

“I hate coming into another season – two years in a row – with one of my big guns not here,” James said. “So, for a leader of a team and for me personally, I just hate to deal with this s— again. It’s just too big of a piece to our team to have to deal with in another training camp.”

RELATED:
Tristan Thompson: ‘We Cannot Win a Championship Without JR Smith’
JR Smith ‘Nervous’ About Looming Free Agency Decision

The post LeBron James Pressures Cavs To Sign JR Smith: ‘They Need To Get It Done’ appeared first on SLAM.

Cavs GM David Griffin announces that Mo Williams is indeed retiring. Addresses J.R. Smith as well. #Cavs pic.twitter.com/BGUtS9Hxe0

— Hayden Grove (@H_Grove) September 26, 2016

Later on in the day, Tristan Thompson made sure his stance on JR’s return to the team was clear. “We cannot win a championship without JR Smith,” Thompson said.

In the video above, Griffin said the team hopes for Smith to be added to the mix very soon.

The post Tristan Thompson: ‘We Cannot Win a Championship Without JR Smith’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith, according to Lue, is the defending NBA champion Cavs’ heart and soul.

Tyronn Lue: The Cavs already 'miss' J.R. Smith, whom he called 'heart and soul' of team @clevelanddotcom https://t.co/NcqMhCZImw

— Joe Vardon (@joevardon) September 22, 2016

Smith and Cleveland haven’t been to reach a deal as of yet, and the 31-year-old is sitting out voluntary workouts with his teammates in California.

Per the NEOMG:

“The biggest thing is we miss J.R. I mean, you can feel it,” Lue said in a phone interview from Santa Barbara, Calif., where all but two of Cleveland’s main players are working out and congregating at James’ invite ahead of the team’s official training camp — which starts in Independence on Monday. […] Smith is not with the team for its workouts at the University of California-Santa Barbara. Nor is Mo Williams, who announced on Twitter Wednesday night he would play one more season.

 

“J.R., he’s the heart and soul of team,” Lue said. “Usually when it’s anything involving the team, J.R. would be there and would be right in the middle of it. You’d hear him laughing or if it’s work, he’d be out there giving it his all. It’s hard.”

 

It’s believed the two sides are at odds over the length and value of a contract — he declined an option for more than $5 million this season and could make triple that amount in 2016-17, depending on the years in his new deal. […] “I always hope we can get something done sooner than later,” Lue said. “He’s our starting two guard, and when you look at what he’s brought to the team the last two years, it means a lot. He’s an outside shooter, obviously, and I believe he’s our best defender at guard position.”

Related
WATCH: LeBron James Tells Cavs to Get J.R. Smith Deal ‘Done’

The post Tyronn Lue: J.R. Smith is the ‘Heart and Soul of the Team’ appeared first on SLAM.

Smith, 31, is reportedly seeking a $15 million/year deal.

We asked @TheRealJRSmith the question everyone is wondering: Why is he still a free agent? https://t.co/36bw08K0K9 pic.twitter.com/oLKHRgj5vb

— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) September 16, 2016

The Cavs are expected to eventually re-sign the veteran shooting guard.

Per Complex:

Smith, believe it or not, is still a free agent with Cleveland’s training camp just weeks away on Sept. 27. He has no idea when he’ll sign with the Cavaliers—“Soon, I hope,” he says. Cleveland is realistically the only team Smith can sign with for the money he’s looking for. So what’s the hold up?

 

“Well, obviously we’re not where we want to be at from a personal standpoint,” says Smith. “But it’s more than just numbers. I don’t want to feel like I’m taking advantage of the Cavs for everything they’ve done for me, and I don’t want them to feel like I’m taking advantage of them. It’s more of a mutual respect thing.”

 

… He was unceremoniously shipped out of New York in January 2015, but after two NBA Finals appearances in Cleveland, he’s seemingly found a home. His family is based out there now; his wife is going to school, as are his daughters. But is Cleveland really the best spot for him? […] “Yes and no. It depends on how you look at it,” says Smith. “Financially, you can always go somewhere else. Team morale-wise, there are a few teams that I could see working. There are guys I would like to play with, guys I have played with. Being able to live in that city or a particular place, school systems, kids, family life—[with] free agency, everything comes into play. Before, I could just sit there and be like, ‘I don’t care where I go.’ But now I have the kids, and it’s like, ‘Ok, what’s the best fit?’”

UPDATE (September 19): According to ESPN‘s Brian Windhorst, Smith will skip the Cavs’ minicamp this week in California.

JR Smith to skip Cavs minicamp in California as sides remain at contract impasse a week before training camp: https://t.co/nls77N9Vhc

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) September 19, 2016

Related
WATCH: LeBron James Tells Cavs to Get J.R. Smith Deal ‘Done’

The post J.R. Smith Hopes to Re-Sign With the Cavs ‘Soon’ appeared first on SLAM.

That’s for Smith’s agent, Rich Paul, to worry about.

VIDEO: From his charity golf classic, @TheRealJRSmith addresses his free agency in the most JR Smith way possible.https://t.co/TgI0HQ1lj9

— UNINTERRUPTED (@uninterrupted) August 18, 2016

The Cleveland Cavaliers have expressed confidence about re-signing the 30-year-old shooting guard, but his desire for a $15 million-a-year deal has created a gulf between the two sides.

Per UNINTERRUPTED:

“I know you guys are going to ask me about my contract situation. You’ve got my agent’s number so you all can call him. Rich Paul. You all know what it is. Klutch. You dig?”

Related
WATCH: LeBron James Tells Cavs to Get J.R. Smith Deal ‘Done’

The post J.R. Smith Doesn’t Want to Answer Free Agency Questions appeared first on SLAM.

The hosts, Jesse Williams (yes, that Jesse Williams) and Stefan Marolachakis, asked LeBron, “If JR Smith were an animal, what animal would he be?”

LeBron responded by laughing, before answering with, “I only got 5 seconds, this isn’t fair? What comes to mind?…I don’t know man, JR is like a dolphin, man…You know why? I watch a lot of these… what is it called, Open Water? Or National Geographic, and dophins like, they’re really killers. Sharks are afraid of them. But, they gotta have a a group around them to become the best of their ability… And incredibly smart.”

You can listen to the full podcast below:

JR, of course, got married last weekend. While LeBron and the Cavaliers would love to have the free agent shooter back, James signed a 3-year, $100 million contract with Cleveland this summer that might make re-signing Smith a financial challenge.

But back to the subject at hand: is LeBron right? Would JR be a dolphin? Or another animal? (In related thoughts: Man, is the season here yet?)

The post LeBron James Says if JR Smith Were an Animal, He’d Be a Dolphin appeared first on SLAM.