NBA free agency still has a lot of credible names in waiting. That includes JR Smith and Carmelo Anthony, two swingmen who can still help any team at some capacity off the bench. However, nothing has materialized so far for the two veterans.
An alternative is to consider an overseas stint. Smith was on the radar of the Jiangsu Dragons in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) but the 33-year-old turned it down, Sportando said. He was the top choice for the ballclub and was offered $1.6 million. This was not enough for the veteran swingman to consider, opting to wait for an NBA call this summer instead.
This development comes not long after Jeremy Lin came to terms with the Beijing Ducks. Linsanity was another player waiting for an NBA call although he has long been rumored to be returning to the CBA. It will be the one-time NBA champion's second tour of duty after playing for the Dongguan Leopards back in 2011.
As for Smith, he could be taking a big risk passing on a stint in China. No team has formally approached him for a possible tenure this 2019-20 NBA season. That could all change once training camp comes around, especially if teams find it necessary to cut some of their current players.
The 18th overall pick of the 2004 NBA Draft has been relegated to the sidelines since November after Smith accused the Cavaliers of not trying to win. Cleveland opted to go in rebuild mode and give younger players more time on the court. He was officially waived last July 15.
The best Smith could get if any team gives him a call is a veteran's minimum. He will likely play limited minutes and spell starters on any team where he ends up. He has the ability to hit it from the wings and play good defense on star players of opposing teams. There are teams who could use someone like him, although he may have to wait. As to how long is anyone's guess.
A reunion with LeBron James at Los Angeles seems out of the question seeing how the Lakers have a full roster. Among the teams that could consider Smith include the Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks, and the Brooklyn Nets. Worth noting is that these teams are filled with young players and Smith could be taken in not just for his skills but to also mentor the rising stars.
