National Basketball Association

Knicks' Smith oprts to be free agent

Published Jun. 26, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The New York Knicks say JR Smith has declined his second-year contract option and will become a free agent.

The Knicks could still re-sign the reserve swingman, who averaged 12.5 points last season, when he becomes a free agent Sunday. He was scheduled to make about $2.5 million next season but could earn slightly more by signing a new deal with the Knicks.

Smith joined the Knicks in February after playing in China during the lockout. He informed the Knicks of his decision on Tuesday.