The Cleveland Cavaliers are facing a flurry of activity lately as J.R Smith became the latest player to opt of his current contract for next season, as expected. But Smith has made it clear that he wants to return to the Cavs on a longer deal, according to Real GM’s Shams Charania:
Cavs' J.R. Smith has opted out of $6 million-plus deal for 2015-16 to become a free agent, sources tell RealGM. Mutual interest in return.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 24, 2015
Smith, along with Iman Shumpert, helped transform the Cavaliers into the Eastern Conference favorites after being traded from the Knicks, but he also suffered a major shooting slump during the Finals and was perhaps best known for his tragicomic Hovertrax exit following the deciding Game 6 loss.
The announcement comes hot off the heels of news that Kevin Love is also opting out of his contract and is set to test the free agent waters on July 1. Love has likewise said that he prefers to return to Cleveland, but he apparently isn’t going to get any added incentive from LeBron James, who’s indicated that he won’t actively try and recruit Love to re-sign.
Anything can happen in free agency, and according to a recent report, the Celtics will try and lure Love away with the prospect of playing alongside Paul Pierce, as unlikely a scenario as that might sound. Smith could be tempted by a similar opportunity if the right team decides to throw more money at him than the Cavs are willing to offer.