J.R. Smith hits the free agency market this offseason alongside his running mate LeBron James. However, James already signed a $100 million deal with Cavs for three years while Smith remains in the market. Reports have it that Cleveland Cavaliers are now more determined to re-sign J.R. Smith by offering a highly competitive deal. Will both parties agree now?
Previous reports suggest that Cleveland Cavaliers offered J.R. Smith a $10 million contract. Unfortunately, the player demands a $15 million pay per year. However, Cavs don't find the need to increase their offer since no other teams in the NBA league are reportedly bidding for Smith.
However, Parent Herald learned that the agreement's concern was not the money but the length of the contract. Cleveland Cavaliers want a shorter deal with J.R. Smith.
Despite Cavs' reluctance to give into J.R. Smith's demands, his playmates were very open to having Smith again with the team. On Smith's birthday, LeBron James sent a warm greeting, acknowledging the player's positive attributes.
According to LeBron James, J.R. Smith is loyal, caring, driven and passionate but often misunderstood. The Kings added that he is excited to get back to court and have Smith as his wing backcourt mate.
Kevin Love also sent his birthday wishes to J.R. Smith. In his message, Love referred to Smith as the team's "absolute life blood." Tristan Thompson agreed to this. Thompson said per Slam that they could not have won the NBA title last season without Smith.
In view of this, Cleveland Cavaliers are making ways to re-sign J.R. Smith. According to SB Nation, Cavs offered Smith a highly competitive deal, just to make the player say yes to them again. Per the report, Cleveland Cavaliers general manager David Griffin has finally made an update about Smith's status with the team.
In Griffin's statement, he acknowledges J.R. Smith contributions and significance in Cleveland Cavaliers' success. He also announced the competitive and aggressive deal they offered to the shooting guard just to stay with the team. Cavs is hoping to seal the deal with Smith soon.
Do you agree that J.R. Smith is essential to Cleveland Cavaliers' success? Will J.R. Smith now re-sign with Cavs? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
