Former Knicks and Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith has signed with the Los Angeles Lakers. The two sides are finalizing a deal for Smith so he can join the team in time for the NBA’s restart at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported the finalization of the deal on Monday morning.
Wojnarowski also noted in his tweet that Smith is more or less taking the place of Avery Bradley, who has chosen to not rejoin the Lakers. Players were given an option to not rejoin their teams due to the dangers and constricting nature of the restart.
Smith and James were teammates on the Cleveland Cavaliers, and accompanied him on the four consecutive NBA Finals matchups with the Golden State Warriors. He won one championship with the Cavs, in 2016.
Formerly a free agent, the shooting guard could serve nicely in place of Bradley, although their skill sets are not exactly interchangeable. His playing experience with LeBron will go a long way, however, in such a shortened regular season and rushed playoff format.
Featured Image courtesy of Jamie Sabau/Getty Images
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