There’s apparently a reason that J.R. Smith has not yet re-signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders reported that Smith is seeking a big payday in negotiations with Cleveland.
Yikes… hearing JR Smith seeking huge deal to return to Cavs, in the $15m per year range. Can Cavs really pass on bringing him back?
— Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) July 17, 2016
It might seem like a lot at first glance, but with the salary cap rise, the fact that Smith became an important contributor, and keeping in mind that Cleveland holds Smith’s Bird rights, it’s not quite crazy. That said, if Smith isn’t attracting a lot of outside interest — it’s no secret that there’s mutual interest in a return, though Smith has kept the door open on an exit — the Cavaliers can play hardball a bit. Ultimately, though, they can’t afford to sign anyone but him for such an important role, so Smith has more leverage. Expect the sides to get a deal done, and expect Smith to get a nice payday out of it.
