JR Smith Reportedly Meeting With Bucks in Free Agency
By Aaron Halford
After being waived by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, veteran guard JR Smith already has a meeting lined up.
The veteran will sit down with the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, according to NBA insider Shams Charania.
JR Smith will have a free-agent meeting with the Bucks today in Milwaukee, league sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium. Bucks are searching for a wing shooter and both sides will have opportunity to sit down.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 18, 2019
The Bucks, who lost key perimeter players Malcom Brogdon and Nikola Mirotic in free agency, are in desperate need of depth and floor spacing. Smith, a proven veteran, will look to provide 3-point shooting and some quality defense.
While Smith only played in 11 games last season, a change of scenery will definitely benefit the 33-year-old. At this point in his career, Smith's skill set is best suited for a contending team.
While many fans and media members predicted that Smith would join LeBron James and the Lakers after being waived, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski dispelled the rumor shortly after.
Once guard JR Smith clears waivers, the Los Angeles Lakers are an unlikely destination, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 15, 2019
An instrumental piece of the Cavaliers' 2016 title, Smith could provide championship pedigree to a variety of rosters across the league. The Bucks are already considered the favorite to win the east by many, and adding Smith would only improve their chances.