National Basketball Association

NBA Rumors: Boston Celtics Interested in J.R. Smith

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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What would it take to lure Smith away from Cleveland? Danny Ainge might have a few ideas.

Frank Isola surprised many in his latest article. As published in the New York Daily News, Isola stated the Boston Celtics‘ interest in J.R. Smith.

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 Cavaliers are currently offering between $10 and $11 million annually

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Now this would be an interesting move for the Celtics. Smith could come to Boston and be a reliable scorer behind Avery Bradley. He would immensely improve Boston’s bench and overall depth. Last year Smith averaged about 13 points per game while shooting 42% from the field.

Also as Celtics Blog mentioned, this move would weaken the Cleveland Cavaliers. The reigning NBA Champions relied heavily on Smith to be an offensive producer. Everyone is chasing Cleveland in the Eastern Conference, any way to slow them down is a plus for the Celtics.

While it is intriguing to think about, this move is highly improbable given Boston’s cap space. As stated above by Isola, the Celtics only have $9 million available to offer Smith. He is seeking about $15 million per year. It also seems that he wants to remain in Cleveland, despite low ball offers they have given him. ESPN writes that he was spotted with Cavalier teammates at the Cleveland Indians playoff game against the Boston Red Sox. It seems likely both parties will work out a deal, ultimately sending Smith back to Cleveland.

While enticing to envision Smith in green, it is highly unlikely for him to sign anywhere other than Cleveland. Although you never know what Danny Ainge has up his sleeve, maybe, just maybe he can pull this one off.

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