J.R. Smith was bound to be free from the Cleveland Cavaliers one way or another this offseason, and it became a reality after he was waived by the team on Monday.
On his Instagram story, Smith shared his response to Dallas Mavericks star Tim Hardaway Jr.’s post about the former Cavs shooting guard’s newfound freedom.
Hardaway’s words were quite hilarious, and Smith is definitely enjoying his freedom after being in NBA limbo since November 2018 when the 15-year veteran agreed to part ways with the Cavs.
Smith was released by the Cavs before his $15.7 million contract for next season became fully guaranteed. Once he clears waivers, Smith will become a free agent and could end up with a contender before the 2019-20 regular season begins.
For the Cavs, they freed themselves of excess financial baggage after releasing Smith. The Cavs will now move below the luxury tax this season after waiving him and stretching his guaranteed $4.4 million payout.
Though Smith had often been maligned for his costly mistakes on the court, he is nonetheless a beloved figure in Cleveland, as evidenced by the invitation he received to play in the recent All-Star Celebrity Softball Game.
He will surely be missed by Cavs fans, who recognize the value he brought to the team, especially during the 2016 championship season.
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